Obituary of Roger Young

Roger Young Born February 19, 1946, died July 22, 2013 Roger Young, renowned spinner of tall tales and tireless pursuer of sport fish, slipped the bonds of this world to go to his eternal rest on July 22, 2013. Roger is survived by a large, extended, and diverse family built on his endless and selfless love for all good people. Roger was known as "Dad," "Grandpa," and "PawPaw" to many people and he loved them all like family, whether or not they were related. During his many years of service as a site supervisor at Country Oaks Elementary, he was known to the kids as "Mr. Young" and to everyone else as "Tell Roger that thing is broken again." He often spoke with joy in seeing the many children who came through the school and blossomed there. For many years, Roger's ball cap, plaid shirt, and gigantic ring of keys were as much an important part of the place as any building or playground. Perhaps his greatest joy was his unending love of the outdoors and the glory of nature in all its forms. From the Florida shore to the Rocky Mountains, he traveled every barren, forgotten, and ill-advised path he could in search of nature in all its untouched glory. He often found that when you went far enough that you did not know precisely where you were, that usually meant you were in the right place. His second love, of course, was his endless pursuit of sport fish with rod and reel. While to most people, Roger was a kind and friendly man, to fish he was terror made real, clad in blue jeans, a plaid shirt, and a mesh baseball cap. Many a bass, pike, and catfish succumbed to his preternatural skill in making fish throw caution to the wind in favor of whatever lure or bait he presented that day. His closest fishing secret was passed on to his children with hushed reverence - "think like a fish." Roger, in death, has chosen his path as he did in life - to live simply and surround himself with the love of those close to him. He wanted no great pomp or fanfare, just a simple gathering of his family and celebration of a long and loving life. While his family mourns his passing, they also celebrate a life well lived and well loved and invite you to do the same. In lieu of flowers, Roger Young's family has asked that donations be made in his name to the Ronald McDonald House. You may view the online obituary and leave a condolence for the family at www.akin-davis.com. Arrangements by Akin Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle