Charles Gilbert "Gil" Young

On Friday, October 17, 2025, Charles Gilbert Young "Gil" died peacefully after a prolonged illness, surrounded by his family.

Gil was an amazing person known for his kindness, generosity and unconditional love. He was born into the, Fawn Grove, PA, Brethren community on February 26, 1930. His father called him a Heliotrope, because he grew towards the sun. He loved sunflowers, butterflies and demonstrated his extraordinary intelligence early on. Gil built a shortwave radio in the early 1940's and as a boy scout was asked to set one up in a remote location.

After graduating from Elizabeth College and the University of Connecticut with a PHD in physics, he drove his motorcycle across the U.S. Consistent with his Brethren upbringing, Gil was a conscientious objector, who served his country during WWII by providing compassionate care in a psychiatric hospital.

Gil and his wife Louise built a home for their 3 sons in Storrs Connecticut where they lived for 28 years The home was so impressive and well-built that his prior neighbor purchased it and still resides there today. Gil was highly respected for his work with lasers and held 23 patents. He received many honors including the prestigious Galaxy award. Despite his busy career, Gil was an avid reader and tennis player who still devoted time to his sons Doug, David, Steven and his nephew David Kissinger taking them on wilderness adventures all over the United States, a tradition that they continue annually today.

After Louise passed away, Gil, at 77 years old, finally retired and married Joan Mills, a 75-year-old tennis player. They traveled all over the world, played tennis and did home improvements well into their 80's. In fact, in his late 80's Gil transported supplies in his "Little Red" sports car and built a beautiful porch.

Gil quickly adopted his new marital family and offered genuine love to each person. When his family entered the room his eyes lit up and his smile gave you no doubt that you were valued and loved unconditionally. He was loving, kind, generous, and wise. Gil brought to the world far more than he took. He is at peace, but he left a huge hole for those that survive him.