

Francis Young. It was in the early afternoon that day she was reunited with the love of her life,
Donald Young Sr. Leona was 78 years old. She was a strong woman who always took on the
worries and hurts of those around her, a champion for the underdog, a breast cancer survivor and
the biggest supporter of her husband, children, grandchildren and daughters in law. Leona was a
firecracker, wouldn’t take sh*t from anyone, but also always believed the best in everyone. She
was a realtor in Oak Shores/ surrounding areas for almost 45 years. She was so passionate about
real estate, she loved her work and absolutely adored working in the community, connecting with
new people, and helping them get into their family homes around Lake Nacimiento, where she
knew they would make so many amazing memories.
Leona died in Oak Shores, CA and was born in Santa Monica, CA on May 10th 1942.
Leona is survived by her five children; Linda Christensen, Donna Masilon, Donald Young Jr.,
David Young, and Katie Benesch, her daughter in law Christina Young, her son in law David
Christensen; as well as her 12 grandchildren; Candice, Heather and Megan Christensen, Kori,
Kodi, Kalee and Kyle Masilon, Dillon and Gunner Young, Hunter Young, Sage Benesch and
great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Young Sr.
Leona was a dedicated mother, she treasured her children and embraced every moment with
them. She was always so giving. She and her husband Don were like open arms, they connected
our family together and because of them and their love, we have so many family memories.
Her family knew her as Grandma Darlin’; a cherished nickname created by her grandchildren
when they were toddlers because she always loved calling the kids Darlin’. Her grandchildren,
family and friends have many memories with her up at the lake and celebrating holidays together
in the home that Don Young had built for them all.
She was known for calling everyone “honey” and talking about herself in the 3rd person. She
loved being with her family and her friends, drinking her boxed chablis, cooking, criticizing her
family but only with the best intentions, hosting her friends, and playing cards. She loved
dancing with her husband anywhere, any time. Her family and friends have fond memories of
Don and Leona dancing with one another; they always had the crowd's attention and the dance
floor would clear to watch them together. Their relationship was incredible and it was wonderful
to watch them together, her husband Don sparked the inner adventurer in Leona and we can find
comfort in them being reunited together in heaven.
Her door was ALWAYS open, she was known for taking in strays, once you became her friend
you were forever welcome in her home. She was so very trusting, she began each relationship
with such an open heart. She cared so deeply for those around her. She was a fierce mother,
spouse and friend and will be missed dearly.
In leiu of flowers or gifts, if you would like to make a memorial donation, please donate to an
Animal Shelter in honor of Leona’s love animals and her cats which held a special place in her
heart.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIOCOMPARTA
v.1.18.0