Deann Young

Deann Young, 86, of Ottawa passed away Sunday, August 25, 2019 at her home.

Private family services have been held. Ottawa Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Deann was born February 6, 1933, in Joliet to Joseph and Katherine (Rothlisburger) Berkes. She married Donald Young on October 1, 1955 in Joliet; he passed away June 30, 2000. Deann enjoyed baking, reading, walking, and visiting with her neighbors. She loved gardening and feeding the birds. She was a collector of birds, hedgehogs, and raccoons.

Deann volunteered for the American Red Cross, was a volunteer Pink Lady at the hospital, and delivered Meals on Wheels. When her children were younger, she was a PTA mom and active in Home Extension, 4H, and Campfire Girls. She was a member of St. Patrick's Church.

She is survived by three daughters, Holly Young of Michigan, Robin Cox of Ottawa, and Lesley (Kevin) Smiley of Industry, IL; one son, Don (Jennifer) Young of Avon, IL; eight grandchildren, Andre and Caleb Young, David Cheli, Joseph (Heather), Daniel, Sean, and Jonathan Smiley, and Madeline Young; two great-granddaughters, Emma Cheli and Reagan Smiley; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two brothers, Elmer and Larry Berkes.

Pallbearers will be Don Young, and Kevin, Joseph, Daniel, Sean, and Jonathan Smiley.