Colonel Raymond A. Youngberg

Colonel Raymond A. Youngberg (USAF Retired) passed away April 5, 2012 and exchanged his pilot wings for a new set of wings. Ray is survived by his wife of 62 years, Evelyn Youngberg; daughter, Pamela Youngberg and son-in-law, Lester Galbraith of Tucson; half sister, Doris Hall and sister-in-law, Joy Hayes of Michigan. Preceded in death by a half brother, Charles Hayes; a half sister, Jean Trputec; parents, Rudolph Youngberg and Sadie Rittman Youngberg Scott. He was born February 26, 1920 in Mediapolis, Iowa and grew up in a Beaver, PA orphanage. He left the orphanage at the age of 16 and finished high school in Beaver while working for room and board. Ray entered the Army Air Corp and flew his first solo flight March 13, 1942. It was a Friday and Ray always considered Friday the 13th as lucky. Colonel Youngberg flew bomber combat missions as a Sergeant Pilot in the Pacific Theater during WWII. He was recalled to active duty in the USAF for the Korean Conflict. He pinned on Colonel while serving in the Viet Nam War. His many medals included the Purple Heart. He flew numerous aircraft including B17s, B24s, B47s, C112s, and C124s. During his 28 year career he was stationed at the following AFB locations; Mountain Home, ID, Waco, TX, San Antonio, TX, Tucson, AZ, Lincoln, NB, Tacoma, WA and Wrightstown, NJ. He spent much of his flying career in Japan and developed an appreciation for Japanese art and culture. Ray always wanted to be married before he turned 30, so he and Evelyn were married on February 25, 1950, one day before his 30th birthday. After retiring from the Air Force he worked for the Post Office as a letter carrier. Retiring from the Post Office. Ray and his wife, Evelyn split their time between Tucson, AZ and Whidbey Island, WA playing lots of golf. Ray was a handyman able to repair things easily. Ray enjoyed gardening, big band music and spending time with his family. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent to the Salvation Army or the Arizona Children's Home. Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at BRING'S BROADWAY CHAPEL.