John W.R. Young

John W.R. Young passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on Sunday May 7, 2017.  He was born on December 27, 1935 in Jamaica Plain, MA to James and Isabella (Ritchie) Young. 

John was a graduate of De Anza college in Cupertino, California and Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts. He was a career military man, retiring as a Master Chief of the US Navy after 25 years of active duty.  His last deployment was aboard the USS Oriskany.

After retirement, John pursued a career in electronics and quality control at several early Silicon Valley companies and Massachusetts technology firms. He later finished off his career in the US Postal Service. 

He was a member of the order of Freemasons achieving the degree of Master Mason.  Dedicated to providing care for children and families he later became a Shriner. 

John contributed his personal time to the Veterans Administration assisting disabled veterans and sharing his knowledge of computing and electronics while volunteering at the Boston Museum of Science and Abington Senior Center.

John was adventurous and during his Navy career he pursued his interest in martial arts. He was promoted to a black belt in Judo and later became a Navy Judo champion.  Fascinated with flight, he also became a pilot and flight instructor. John competed in sailing and taught his son, daughter, and grandsons how to sail and fish.  Even as a senior citizen, John regularly kayaked, competed in sled hockey and traveled with the VA.

John had an intense interest in the pursuit of knowledge. He was accepted into the Mensa Society due to his intellect. His passion for technology is shown through his numerous volunteer work and his desire to educate and lead others throughout his life.

Generous and easy going, John made many good friends throughout his life.  He will be loved and fondly remembered by his family, and many friends.

His is survived by his daughter Suzanne and her husband Nils Djusberg of Abington and his son William Young and his wife James Young of Livermore, Ca. He was also close with his three grandchildren Oskar and Max-Anders Djusberg and Duncan Young. 

He is also survived by his twin brother James Young, sister Hazel Ravanis and sister Mary Ellen Forte. 

John was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Irene Porior, Betty Novak, Marjorie Kripton, and Isabelle(Susie) Plotkey.

Funeral Services will be held on May 10 at 10am at Quealy & Son Funeral Home 116 Adams St, Abington MA.  Visiting hours are Tuesday May 9 from 4PM to 8PM.

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