Gary G. "Ghost" Young

Gary G. Young, (Ghost) 82, of Ft. Myers Beach, FL passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024 with his loving family by his side. He was born on December 7, 1941, in Darby, PA, to George and Doris Young. Gary leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and music.

Gary was a graduate of Marple Newtown High School and also attended The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. 

His first job was at The Original Thunderbird in Broomall, PA.  Gary instantly felt like family to The Greco's who still own and operate The Thunderbird to this day. In the early 70's,  Gary moved to Hamilton, NJ where he had 25 years of service as a senior tree climber/supervisor for the Mercer County Shade Tree Department.  Gary retired in 1998 and moved to Ft. Myers Beach, FL.

Gary enjoyed playing golf, riding roller coasters and was a lifetime Washington Redskins fan. Gary's true passion was playing music.  Gary played bass guitar for numerous bands in the Tri State Area. One of the highlight's of his music career was when he  had the honor of sharing the stage with Chubby Checker and The Del-Vikings.  While living in Ft. Myers Beach, Gary hosted a weekly jam session for 13 years known as "Ghost Jam" at Bonita Bills.  During each and every jam sessions Gary would ask the crowd to give three hoorah's for our Vets.  Gary would read rock and roll trivia questions and whoever answered correctly would win one of his treasured bandanas.  Also during the Ghost Jam, Gary would sing "What a Wonderful World"  while walking around the usually standing room only crowd and pass out red roses to the "young" ladies. The Ghost Jam at Bonita Bills was the only place to be on Ft. Myers Beach on a Monday night.  Music was not just a hobby for Gary but a way to connect with others and spread joy through his talents.

Gary is predeceased by his grandfather George Young, his parents George and Doris Young, a special Aunt Charlotte Mazzeo and his son in law Jason Liestman. He is survived by his wife Shirley Jean Meyer-Young, his sons Gary and his wife Janice; Thomas, and Michael; his daughters Daneen "Candy" Young and her companion Glen, Debbie Donofrio and her husband Rob, Tara Monte and her husband Tom and Kierstyn Young (KY),  his step children with whom he had a special bond, Jim Mehle and his wife Jill, Paul Mehle and his wife Jolene, Pam Liestman, Christy Berndt and her husband Andy.  He is also survived by 24 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, his special alien friend Lucy and the countless friends he has made over the years. His memory will be forever treasured by all those who knew him.

Gary will be remembered for his kind heart, sense of humor, and dedication to his passions. May he rest in peace knowing that he touched the lives of many with his music and unwavering love for those around him.

Services will be held privately.  A Celebration of Life will be held at Bonita Bills in Ft. Myers Beach at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to The Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675, woundedwarriorproject.org, would be appreciated.