Hugh Alfred “Hughie” Young passed away peacefully at the QEII Hospital in Grande Prairie on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at the age of 87 years, just short of his 88th birthday. Hughie was born March 22, 1930 in Spirit River, AB to Hugo and Margaret Young. When Hughie was 2½ years old, his mother passed away. At that time, Hughie’s Aunt, Theophita Cabana (Aunt Teo), took over Margaret’s role as caregiver to the children, until her death in 1983.
Hughie went to school in a one room schoolhouse in Bronco Creek from grades 1-8, after which he went to High School in Spirit River. As a young man, he went to Chicago Trade School in Edmonton and became a mechanic.
In 1954, Hugh married the love of his life, Janet Armour Brock. They enjoyed 63 years together raising three children: Robert (Crystal), Linda (Gerry) and Margo (Tony).
Hughie spent his whole life in the Bronco Creek area where he farmed with his brothers and father under the name of “Young and Sons” until Hugo’s death in 1962. The boys took over the farm which was eventually operated under the name of “Young Brothers”.
Gradually Hugh’s son Robert bought the brothers out and they continued to farm under the name “Bronco Creek Farms Ltd.” The farm is still a family run business by Robert, Crystal and their son Aaron. Hugh never missed a day on the farm even after he and Janet moved to Spirit River in 1989 to a house built by Hugh.
Over the years, Hughie was a dedicated volunteer in the community. He was a Municipal Councilor, a founding member for the Central Peace Gas Co-op, worked for the livestock co-op, and was involved with the Spirit River Kinsmen to name a few. Wherever volunteers were needed, he always stepped in to help whether it was with the Spirit River Museum, helping construct the local curling rink or putting in greens at the local golf course. He was a lifetime member of the Spirit River Curling Club. He loved baseball and golf as well.
He was particularly pleased to be present for the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the farm in 2014. His main loves in life were family, farming and animals. He is survived by his loving wife Janet; his three children; five grandchildren: Lisa (Dave), Kurtis (Julie), Aaron, Dani (Brian) and Matt; five great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families. His oldest sister Irene Anderson is living in Edmonds, Washington. Hugh was pre-deceased by his brothers Lloyd and Lawrence, and sister Nora Babuik.
He appreciated the ongoing medical care he received over the years, and of special mention, Dr. Spruyt. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.