Pauline Young, 78, of Charlevoix, passed away unexpectedly on May 7, 2025, while in Kenya on one of her amazing adventures. Pauline was born on December 19, 1946, in Traverse City, MI where she spent most of her childhood. She moved to Charlevoix in high school, where she would go on to graduate. More importantly, she met a young man in high school, Drew Earl Young Jr. “Skip”. They married on September 21, 1966. They called Charlevoix home from that point forward. Pauline ran a daycare out of their home from 1983 until 2013. She absolutely adored each child she took care of and enjoyed watching them grow up.
Pauline was an intrepid traveler, both inside the US as well as to other countries. She was always giddy with excitement before each trip as she awaited the adventures that were ahead. She was never afraid to try new things being that her comfort zone was essentially non-existent. She also loved to hunt for stones and rocks and was incredibly proud of the three special fireplaces. These fireplaces were constructed in her home and made with rocks that she and Skip hand-picked. Home cooked meals and baked goods were Pauline’s way of showing her love to others. She used many fresh vegetables from the Way’s Garden across the road in her recipes. She also knitted innumerable hats, mittens, socks, blankets, and Christmas stockings for newborns, family members, and friends.
Pauline was the matriarch of the family. She was the glue that held it all together. She and her neighbors also had a special bond that had grown over the years. They became some of her dearest friends. Her absence will leave a large hole in the lives of those around her, but her memory will live on through the stories they share.
Pauline is survived by her two sons, Jeffrey Young (Honey Hansford) of Charlevoix and James (Laura) Young of North Carolina; two sisters, Geri (Lars) Syverson of Petoskey and Sally Charest of Traverse City; four grandchildren, Alexys Young (Sebastian Simbana), Ethan Young, Skylar Young, and Sienna Young; and many extended family members
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 56 years, Drew Earl Young Jr. “Skip” Young; and her parents, Wayne Oliver and Phyllis Oliver.
A memorial service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of services at 2:00. For those unable to attend in person, Pauline's memorial service will be livestreamed via the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2314346202?pwd=UzI1eEFmeHVZaDFPZ1RqUXVSS21zUT09&omn=82644581565
Meeting ID: 231 434 6202
Passcode: hello
Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
209 State St, Charlevoix, MI 49720

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more