Vernon Young

Born August 23, 1926 in Willow Creek, CA to Margaret and Daniel Young. Died peacefully at home in Willow Creek on July 4, 2012.

Siblings: Mildred, Muriel, Daniel, Fern, all deceased.

Vernon graduated Hoopa High School in 1944 then joined the Navy shortly before turning 18. He served his country through 1946, and upon his return from action in World War II he enrolled at San Jose State University, graduating in 1950. He taught school in Willow Creek 1950-1956 where he met his wife, Annette Jeanne Jicha. They married April 3, 1955 and moved to Arcata in 1957, keeping his property in Willow Creek for weekend and summer enjoyment.

He taught math at the old Eureka Jr. High then at the new Jacobs Jr. High when it opened. He transferred to Zane Jr. High when it started, and there he finished his 28 years of teaching in Eureka, retiring in 1984. Vernon had become known for his sweet Willow Creek peaches. He helped get the Farmers Marker started. He farmed through his last morning, preparing his tomatoes for a successful season.

He is survived by his wife, Annette and their children Dale (Janice Bivens) or Vancouver, WA, Donald (Kathy O’Neil) of Willow Creek and Deanne Albright (Michael) of McKinleyville and grandchildren Joshua, Amber, Tiffany, Ryan Young and JT Albright. He had one great grandchild, Briana, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post #9561 in Willow Creek, the California Retired Teachers Assn. and the Northcoast Growers.

There will be a visitation at Paul’s Chapel in Arcata on Sunday, July 8, 2012 from 5-8pm. A funeral service will be held at Paul’s Chapel on Monday, July 9, 2012 at 11am.

Donations may be made to a charity of your choice or the Leukemia Research Fund 3520 Lake Avenue Ste. 202, Willamette, IL 60091-1062