Wendy Dawn Young

Wendy Dawn Young was born on April 1st, 1960 to Roger and Bernadine Zimmerman. She grew up as the daughter of the widely known and respected Zimmerman citrus ranching family of Bloomington, CA. Growing up amidst the vibrant orange trees and tall rustling eucalyptus wind breaks, she found great comfort in the quiet solitude.

She loved nature and all animals since she was a child. She was never without a cat by her side, especially her beloved Mudcat. As a young woman, her best companion was an orphaned American Kestrel chick named Icarus. She nourished and cared for her until her eventual return to the wild. Her special connection with animals would continue throughout her life.

In 1981 she met her future husband, Timothy Young and they purchased a property in the rural hills near Hemet, CA. Together they restored an A-frame cabin nestled in the California live oak forest of Avery Canyon. This is where they raised their son Marshall Wyatt Young. One of the greatest joys in her life was introducing him to her passion for nature and teaching him about every native plant and animal. While raising Marshall, she spent multiple years volunteering at Bautista Creek Elementary where she was renowned for her outstanding ability to educate children in their literacy program. All who knew her will remember her for her kind personality and stunning long auburn hair.

In her free time, she enjoyed hiking and spending time with her pets, Murf the tabby cat, and her loyal Dalmatian Pongo. She also had many wild animal friends including “Lazy Boy” the grey fox, and a multi-generational flock of ravens who would greet her each morning.

Her gracious and beautiful spirit will be remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

She is survived by her husband Timothy Young, her son, Marshall Young, and her brothers Barney and Clay Zimmerman also by many family and friends that love her dearly.