Linda Jean (Burquist) Young

On May 12, 2024, our family and the world suffered a profound loss as heaven received its greatest Mother's Day gift. Linda Jean (Burquist) Young of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away at the age of 77. She was born December 4, 1946, in Chicago, IL, one of four children.

A beautiful, vibrant person, always full of life and positivity, Linda's love for her family and friends was unparalleled. She will be deeply missed by so many. Linda cherished her role as mother and grandmother, dedicating her life to family. She took everyone in as her own and never missed an opportunity to gather her loved ones. Knowing her children were content and following their dreams was all she needed for peace of mind.

She and her late husband, Tom Young, raised their three children, Tommy, Laura, and Billy, in Bolingbrook, IL. Linda spent many years working at Bolingbrook High School. She then moved to Sister Lakes, MI, where she and her sister Cara enjoyed the lake life together. Linda established firm roots in Michigan, working and making good friends. In 2013, Linda moved to Grand Rapids with her life partner, Bob, where she continued her love of gardening and DIY home projects.

Most important to Linda was that her friends and family were happy. She loved holidays, decorating, and any reason for celebration. Though she often joked that cooking was not her favorite activity, she had a few special dishes everyone looked forward to. In her golden years, Linda traveled the world, exploring Europe with her sister Cara and taking many trips through North America with her partner Bob.

She viewed the world with an open mind and embraced life with a boundless heart. To know Linda was to love her. Her smile always shone bright, even in the bleakest of times. She taught all of us what it means to be generous, accepting, selfless, and kind. Her impact on our lives is immeasurable. Because of her, we are all better versions of ourselves. Her loving spirit will live on in the many lives she touched and the beautiful family she raised.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Madelyn and Norman Burquist, her brother, Robert Burquist, and her husband, Thomas Young. She is survived by her partner, Robert Netzel; brother, Ralph Burquist; sister, Cara Knippel; her children, Thomas Young (Kristina), Laura Young Gould (David), and William Young (Shannon); several nieces and nephews, and her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

We are deeply grateful for your love and support during this difficult time. The family invites you to honor Linda's memory by posting your favorite memories or photos here.