Michael Lee Young

Michael Lee Young, 74, of Billings, Montana, passed away with his family by his side on January 24,2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

Mike was born June 12,1950 to Ronald and Louise (Van Dusen) in Sidney, Montana. A few years later, he moved with his parents and three brothers to Billings, Montana where he attended Burlington Elementary, Lewis & Clark Middle School, and West High School.  Mike’s love for sports began early and lasted his entire life. Growing up, Mike spent most of his time happily playing golf, basketball, football, and baseball.

After Mike graduated from West High School in 1968, he proceeded to study business and psychology as an undergraduate and then received a Master’s Degree in Psychology from Montana State University Eastern.

Mike served as a dedicated professional during his over forty-year career in youth behavioral health & addiction counseling, spending most of that time with The Department of Youth Corrections for Yellowstone County. Mike retired in 2012 to spend time with Sharon and their dogs, and to travel to Seattle and Ohio to visit children and grandchildren.

In early 1980, Mike met Sharon Peterson in Miles City, Montana, and they were married July 18, 1980.  He and Sharon had three children: Laurel, Kirsten, and Evan.  Mike, above all else, was the biggest fan and supporter of anything his kids and grandkids were involved in.  He loved knowing all the details of their sports, academics, careers, and hobbies. Mike will always be fondly remembered for his sense of humor and ability to carry on a conversation with absolutely anyone. He will forever hold a special place in our hearts as a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and grampy.

Mike was predeceased by his daughter Laurel Young, parents Ronald Young and Louise Van Dusen, and brothers Dennis Young and Ronald Young Jr. He is survived by his wife Sharon, his children Kirsten Kneeland (Jonathan) and Evan Young (Liz), his grandchildren Andrew Kneeland and Laurel Kneeland, his brother Terry Young (Rosemary), many nieces and nephews, and lifelong friends.

A memorial will be planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to PEAKS (www.billingsclinic.com/foundation/peaks/) or Relay For Life (https://donate.cancer.org/).