Joseph Edward Young

Joseph Edward Young, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, at the age of 96 in Irondale, Missouri. Born on Monday, June 17, 1929, in Madison, Illinois, Joseph lived a life rich in experiences and love.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Lawrence Young and Charlotte Pearl (Naney) Young, and his loving wife Doris Louise (Bush) Young; three siblings, Bill Schatz, Charlotte Meyer and Raymond Young.

Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Army, serving in the Korean War. His dedication to service continued as he became a lifelong member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) volunteering at the VFW hall and serving as an Honor Guard up until recent years. He was also a past volunteer with the Goose Creek Fire Department, and he played a significant role in the implementation of 911 services in St. Francois County.

Joseph retired from the Illinois Central Railroad, He was a dedicated member of the Brotherhood of Railroad and Steamship Clerks, and his work ethic was admired by all who knew him.

In addition to his professional accolades, Joseph was a man of many talents. He was a model train enthusiast and collector. He enjoyed ceramics, quilting, and crocheting with his late wife, Doris, whose memory he cherished dearly. The nickname Rockman was earned by hard work searching and gathering quartz/crystal rocks to build and create beautiful rock walls, fountains and flower beds for his wife. Despite having no formal carpentry training, Joseph built two homes using his ingenuity and determination with one being featured in Better Homes and Garden Magazine. Known for his sense of humor, he delighted in playing pranks and sharing laughter with friends and family.

Above all, Joseph was a devoted family man. He raised three wonderful daughters, Linda O'Hara, Ruby Cowan, and Charlotte Bess, instilling in them the values of integrity and kindness. He was a guiding light in their lives, always putting God first and family second, reminding them of the importance of faith and love in all things.

Joseph is survived by his cherished daughters; Linda O’Hara, Ruby Cowan and husband Bill, and Charlotte Bess and husband Jerry; nine grandchildren, Joshua Selby, Cassie Selby, Isaiah Selby, Lakota Lay, Cheyenne Lay, Darrin Cantlon, Frank Cantlon, Bobbiejo Schlueter, and Charleah Adams; several great grandchildren, several great-great grandchildren; one sister in-law, Sharon Young, along with many nieces, and nephews.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer Funeral Home in Bonne Terre, on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. There will be a VFW service at 6:30 PM to honor Joseph Young.   Visitation will resume on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9:00 A.M. until service time of 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Matt Smith officiating. Burial will follow at St. Francois Memorial Park in Bonne Terre.