Michael James "Mike" Young

CHOCOLAY TOWNSHIP, MI - With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Michael "Mike" James Young, 61 of Chocolay Township, on August 22, 2025.

Mike was born on April 10, 1964, in Marquette, the son and youngest of 10 children, to Sylvester and Marie (Frisk) Young. He was raised in the heart of Beaver Grove and graduated from Marquette Senior High School, Class of 1981. In his senior year, Mike started working part-time at Young's Tire, Brake and Alignment alongside his brother Ward. Following his graduation, he embarked on his four-decade-long career, eventually taking over the business in 2008. Mike continued operating Young's until his well-deserved retirement in January 2025.

In 1990, Mike met his future wife Kim Hirvonen at a softball banquet at the Idle Time in Skandia. The two married on October 8, 1994, beginning their family life in Marquette with Kim's two daughters. Mike effortlessly stepped in and completed their family, helping raise the girls as his own. He truly and humbly embraced fatherhood, right down to chastising early boyfriends. Together, Mike and Kim reveled in family camping trips, cheered at their daughters' sporting events, and valued time at their family camp on Lake Superior.

In his youth, Mike enjoyed playing sports including softball, basketball, and ice fishing. Over the years, his interest shifted to weekly golf outings with his brothers and friends in the summer and playing cribbage at the Crossroads in winter. A dedicated Packers fan, Mike supported his team through every win and loss. He loved the outdoors, finding joy in snowshoeing with his dog, Milo, and walking along Lake Superior's beaches. Whether biking or relaxing on the deck with a radio and crossword puzzle and his other dog, Tula, Mike appreciated life's simple pleasures. His laughter and camaraderie were ever-present at Camp B.S., particularly on "the tequila side of the table," where he created unforgettable memories with his brothers and friends.

In 2024, after much persuasion, Mike finally took a well-deserved break to witness the other side of his daily view, enjoying a memorable Lake Superior circle tour with Kim, his brother-in-law, and sister-in-law.

Mike's generosity and readiness to lend a helping hand was boundless. He was there for anyone, anytime, anywhere. While many aspire to be a "jack of all trades," Mike embodied this role with humility and ease.

Mike and Kim proudly owned "The Shop" where Mike was known for his kindness, generosity, and commitment to his customers. He always went the extra mile to accommodate the needs of others, building lifelong friendships through his work. His customers (and their dogs) were truly family to him.

Above all, Mike's greatest joy was the simple moments spent with his beloved family. He adored his grandchildren, who cherished every moment with their Papa learning to build with Lincoln Logs, skip rocks, "drive" the golf cart and fix cars.

Mike is survived by his cherished wife of 30 years, Kim Young of Marquette; two daughters, Meagan Petros of Negaunee and Steffani (Douglas) Baker of Marquette; his adored grandchildren, Cason Kerry and Julien Baker; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Lori (Terry) Kasten of Marquette; brothers, Douglas (Claire) Young, Brett Young, Ward (Sharon) Young, Scott (Sue) Young, Kurt Young, Dirk (Laurie) Young, and Rock (Kathy) Young; sister, Mary Heidel; sister-in-law, Nancy (Bob) Heidrich, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He joins in eternal peace his parents, brother Rob, sisters-in-law Linda Young and Debbie Young, and brother-in-law Doug Heidel.

Join us in a loving celebration of Mike's life on Friday, September 19, 2025. The gathering will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Canale Funeral Home and Cremation Services, with a service led by Pastor Kevin Taylor at 3:00 p.m. Let's come together to share stories, laughter and gratitude for the wonderful memories he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mike's name are welcomed. Donations can be mailed to Steffani Baker, 49 S Tracie Ln, Marquette, MI 49855, made payable to the Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter or St. Vincent DePaul Society. The family will personally deliver the contributions to these cherished organizations.

The Canale Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family where condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com