Jeffery Allen Young

Jeffery Allen Young, 33, of South Bend, Indiana, passed away Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024, due to an accident.

He was born March 18, 1991, in Plymouth, Indiana, the son of Richard William Young and Barbara Ann (Taylor).

Growing up in La Porte, Jeffery proudly served his country in the United States Army infantry, spending two years in Afghanistan. His service also took him to Germany and Clarksville, Tennessee, where he exemplified the values of dedication throughout his life.

On Aug. 27, 2011, in New Carlisle, Indiana, he married Sara Elizabeth Woodke, who survives. After the service, Jeffery returned to the area of his hometown and began a fulfilling career as a steel worker at Cleveland Cliffs.

A lover of physical fitness, Jeffery enjoyed a variety of activities, from running, where he celebrated a personal achievement by completing his first marathon earlier this year, to weight lifting. He also found joy in fishing and riding his motorcycle, an Indian Scout, experiences that brought him peace and fulfillment.

Family was at the heart of Jeffery's life. He treasured the time spent with his daughter, Ava, and his son, Will, whose team he coached in baseball this year, nurturing not only his son's skills on the field, but also creating lasting memories together.

He was a great father, demonstrating unconditional love and support. He also cherished quieter moments, often finding solace in motivational books that fueled his ambition and positivity. In addition to his various interests, Jeffery had a special bond with animals, particularly his Australian shepherd, Abby Jean, who was a constant source of companionship. Jeff will be lovingly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his parents, Barbara (fiancé, Terry Pointon) Taylor and Richard Young; his loving wife of 13 years, Sara; son, William Jay Young; daughter, Ava Marie Young; brother, Garrett Young of Arizona; two sisters, Ashley Young of La Porte, Indiana, and Jasmine Young of Little Rock, Arkansas; father-in-law, Todd Woodke of La Porte, Indiana; mother-in-law, Michelle (Michael) Lachiewicz of La Porte, Indiana; maternal grandmother, Sheila Chester; paternal grandfather, Richard "Rick" Young; two uncles, Doug Taylor of La Porte, Indiana, and Daniel (Stephanie) Young of La Porte, Indiana; aunt, Dorothy Wellinski; niece, Brinley Kreighbaum; nephew, Oliver Kreighbaum; godchild/cousin, Wyatt Wellinski; brother-in-law, Aaron Lachiewicz of La Porte, Indiana; sister-in-law, Emilee Lachiewicz of La Porte, Indiana; and a large extended family.

Jeffery was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Jim Chester; paternal grandmother; Connie Young; and uncle, Toby Young.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, Indiana, where the family will receive friends for a visitation on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m., with a service at 6 p.m. Military honors will be rendered. Cremation has been chosen.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jeff's name to the American Legion Post 83, La Porte, Indiana, who proudly supplies an Honor Guard for funerals upon request, or the USO Pathfinder Transition Program at Rota.uso.org.

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstock funeralhome.com.