Edward Greenleaf Young Jr.

1939 - 2025

Edward Greenleaf Young Jr.

November 17, 1939 - November 15, 2025

MADISON - Edward Greenleaf Young Jr., 85, of Madison, a man known for his quiet generosity, deep integrity, and lifelong commitment to helping others, passed away on November 15, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished.

Born November 17, 1939, in New Ulm, Minn., to Edward and Mabel Young, Ed grew up with his siblings Greg, Jim, and Sally. An avid Boy Scout, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and spent his childhood embracing the Minnesota seasons.

Ed graduated from Illinois College, later earning a graduate degree from the University of Illinois. He built a long and respected career in finance and business. His professional journey included roles with GTE, the State of Wisconsin, MG&E, and finally Bethel Lutheran Church.

On June 2, 1962, Ed married the love of his life, Nancy Fulton, beginning a 63-year partnership grounded in humor, teamwork, and devotion. Together they raised three children-Todd (Kate Young), Tim (Beatriz Palomino Young), and Toni (Chhem Young Pen).

For more than 40 years, Ed and Nancy's home on Lake Monona became the heart of the Young family-filled with waterskiing, sailing, family reunions, celebrations, and their cherished Thanksgiving tradition -- often hosting up to 40 people.

Ed could build or fix anything and was known to travel with tools "just in case." He was a devoted supporter of his children's and grandchildren's many sporting events. He adored his grandchildren: Alex, Erik, Rebecca, Soraya, Chenoa, Malia, Belén, and Andre.

Service was central to Ed's life. He served in the U.S. Army during and after college. Later on, Ed served on multiple boards and was a Kiwanis member for more than 40 years. He and Nancy were longtime Red Cross volunteers, responding to disasters across the country. In 2013, they received the Monona Mayoral Award for their contributions to the community.

Ed is survived by his wife, Nancy; his children and their spouses; his eight grandchildren; his brother, Jim Young (Kathy Steinberger); his sister, Sally Young; and his sister-in-law, Donna Young, wife of his late brother, Greg.

A memorial service will be held at BETHEL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 312 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025. A visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

For more information on online condolences, please visit www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420