To know Arthur Paul Young was to know a man who was a hero, a beloved husband, awesome father, sweet grandfather, and a hard worker. Arthur began his life in Denver, Colorado - the adored son of Arthur T. and Verna Young. He was a Colorado native, attending Englewood High School and graduating in June of 1955. He married his forever loved wife, Alice Marie not long after his graduation, and they spent 62 blissful years together.
Arthur was brave, he served his country from 1953 - 1961 in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. This service instilled in him a will that was strong, as during this time he had seen many things. Unscathed, and home, Arthur would turn out to be a proud veteran all of his life.
Arthur went on to take classes with Glenn L. Martin Aerospace and quickly became one of their mechanical engineers and propulsion specialists. Glenn L. Martin Aerospace is known today as Martin Marietta. Arthur was incredibly gifted, working on all of the Apollo and Gemini projects, the Titan projects, helping design instruments and propulsion systems for the moon buggy and lunar drill. He loved his job so much. He would do anything to be at work doing what he loved, and despised taking a sick day. He truly enjoyed being a talented mechanical engineer. Arthur was honored to be apart of the Apollo 11 mission, the same mission that allowed American's to walk on the face of the moon. He passed away only several days after the 50 year anniversary of the mission, some may say it's a fitting tribute to his hand in making that mission successful. He worked with Martin Marietta from 1956-1995, retiring after 39 years to pursue another one of his great passions, astronomy. He was a endearing space enthusiast.
Alice Marie was another one of Arthur's passions, because he was completely enamored with her. They were married for 62 years, and if everyone could find a love like the kind Arthur had for Alice, the world would be a far more beautiful place. But Arthur did his part, and instilled that same love into his children. Jolene, Jim, John, and Roxann will not only remember their dad by the titles, veteran, mechanical engineer and husband, they will also remember him as amazing Dad. The Dad they were proud of, and who was proud of them. They will also remember him as foster dad. Together, Arthur and his family cared for over 60 babies in foster care. Sometimes it was absolute chaos, but the love they gave those children in the dawn of their lives was a gift that is truly incredible.
Later in his life Arthur was graced with Chuck, Jonathan, Jessica, Marissa, Joshua, Carlos, and Tony, his grandchildren. And then with Kayla, Juliet, Ethan, and Zoey, his great-grandchildren. He was an extra special grandpa and great-grandpa, who will be deeply missed but remembered fondly.
In life Arthur walked with Christ by showing kindness, compassion, determination, love, and courage. In death, Arthur walks by Christ's side knowing he gently instilled the same values into his family. His legacy is love, and that's the most beautiful legacy to leave.
Family and friends are encouraged to honor a great man by visiting with one another and Arthur on Friday, July 26th from 5PM-7PM. Because Arthur would have prayed the rosary in times of want and plenty family and friends are also encouraged to join in praying the rosary following the time of visiting. Arthur will have a funeral service as a tribute to his life on Saturday, July 27th at 10AM, he will be laid to rest with military honors following his funeral at 11AM. All services are being cared for at Olinger Chapel Hill Mortuary and Cemetery.