Mark Alan Young

Mark Alan Young went to be with his Lord and Savior on August 1st, 2024 at his home surrounded by his wife, Gretchen Young, and children, Abbey (Josh), Eric (Hannah), and Mark (Megan).

Mark was born in Allentown, PA. He is preceded in death by his father, John Young, and survived by his mother, Florence Young, and three older siblings, Gae (Mark) Wofford, Timothy (Kathi) Young, and J. David (Heather) Young.

Mark met his wife and high school sweetheart at Faith Christian Academy in Sellersville, PA. After high school, he attended Pillsbury College in Owatonna, MN. He was an all-around athlete, playing baseball, football, soccer, and basketball; breaking several records that held until the college’s close.

However, he would say his greatest life achievement was when he accepted Christ as his personal Savior in 1988. He graduated with a degree in pastoral studies in 1990.

On July 21st of 1990, he married Gretchen Clymer. They lived in Owatonna, MN and attended Grace Baptist Church, where he served as youth pastor from 1990 to 1996. During these years he also became a proud Father to Abbey Noel (1991), Eric James (1992), and Mark Joseph (1996).

He then went back to school for his Master’s degree at Bethel Seminary. In 1997, he accepted the head pastorate at Grace Community Church in Eyota, MN; where he served faithfully for 27 years, until the Lord called him home.

The Young family’s life changed forever with the discovery of his first brain tumor in the year 2000. Mark persevered through numerous surgeries and setbacks, but through the prayers of many he remained a light and testimony to God’s sustaining power.

A verse he instilled into his children and lived out daily was 1 Cor. 10:31, “Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

In 2017 Mark was promoted to the title of Grandfather. He is survived by grandchildren Leo, Cyrus, and Thea; Amelia and Benaiah; Grayson and baby girl due in November 2024.

He would say that God has richly blessed him; all who know and love him would say God has blessed and enriched their lives through him.

Funeral service is Tuesday, August 6th, 11:00 a.m. at Grace Community Church in Eyota with Pastor Greg McClellan officiating. A private burial will follow at the Oak Grove Cemetery, Eyota. The Visitation is Tuesday, 9:30 till the time of the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred too: Grace Community Church Kids Program.

Schad & Zabel Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.