Sheridan LeRoy Youngman

Sheridan LeRoy Youngman, 87 of Hereford, AZ passed away on Sunday, October 22nd 2023 at Haven Health Sierra Vista.

He leaves behind a daughter, Sherida (Jared) Hemelstrand, and three grandchildren; Tyson Bailey Hemelstrand, Miles Sheridan Hemelstrand, and Julia Lauren Hemelstrand, of Sioux Falls, SD in addition to a number of colleagues, friends, and neighbors to reflect on his life.

Sheridan was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved pet Schnauzer, Pepper, and his most recent companion, Australian Shepherd, Angus.

Born May, 5th 1936 in New York to Henry Youngman and Doris Marguerite (Fay) Youngman, Sheridan spent his childhood in New York and New Jersey. After graduating from Fort Lee High School in Fort Lee New Jersey in 1953, Sheridan enlisted in the Navy. He was stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba where he worked in radio broadcasting. His distinct and commanding voice were well suited to the task. Upon his return and discharge Sheridan and his parents relocated from New Jersey to California where he would pursue a rewarding career and many passions.

Sheridan made his career in the jewelry industry. He was a skilled and talented jeweler and gemologist. His eye for detail and design lent themselves well to the work - casting, setting stones, making models, and hand engraving pieces for his clients; he did it all and he did it well. He owned his own retail and engraving store in Glendale, California until after his daughter was born. He continued to work in retail, manufacturing, and packaging jewelry until his retirement.

A great many passions and hobbies shaped Sheridan over the course of his life. Sheridan was an LA County Scuba Advanced Diver, and NAUI Master Diver. Weekend dives in the cold waters of the Pacific might yield some delectable abalone or California spiny lobster. Vacations to warm water destinations in Hawaii and Mexico included more casual adventures where diving and snorkeling were opportunities to share his love of the sea with his travel companions.

Golf was another way Sheridan would connect and make time for people. He enjoyed the marvelous courses along the coast of California with friends, and frequented the driving range at Griffith Park and the Los Feliz 3 Par with his young daughter in tow. A cherry Coke and chili dog at the end of 9 holes was always a welcome reward. Throughout the years Sheridan enjoyed an active lifestyle that allowed time for home improvement projects, motorcycle charity rides, and travel. He enjoyed art and museums. Sheridan was a Freemason in California and supported a number of charities.

Above all else, Sheridan can be remembered for his deep connection with animals. He had many beloved and well cared for pets over the years. While he was particularly fond of dogs, Sheridan also rescued horses and provided refuge to other small creatures as well. Their good health and vibrance was a direct result of his love and care. He treated animals with respect and integrity. You could see the gentleness emerge when an animal was near Sheridan. A slight tilt of the head, a small step closer - a missive exchanged silently between them could be witnessed even upon a first meeting. The peace, affection, and joy Sheridan derived from animals was palpable.

Sheridan will be memorialized privately by his family and close friends. There will be no ceremony or inurnment.