Mary Young

Mary L. Young
14 Aug 1952 - 16 Sep 2020

Clubs & Associations

Obituary

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Mary L. Young died at 68 years of age in her beloved Albuquerque Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020. The daughter of Elmer R. and Lillian Brown Young, Mary was the third of four siblings, including Richard A. Young of Pocahontas, the late Robert D. Young and Teresa L. Rushin of Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Born and reared in Cape Girardeau, Mary was a member of the Central High School class of 1970. Upon graduating in 1973 with a degree in psychology from Southeast Missouri State University, Mary was a social worker in St. Louis and later moved to Nebraska. She subsequently relocated to Fayetteville, Arkansas, where she worked for the University of Arkansas and eventually earned a master's degree in mechanical engineering. In 1986, she accepted an engineering position with Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque. Engaged in various capacities throughout her career, Mary remained at Sandia Laboratories until her retirement.

Beginning a new phase of life with retirement, Mary indulged her native curiosity pursuing academic training in financial management, taking up bee keeping, learning to scuba dive, and serving as a foster parent for humane society dogs awaiting permanent homes.

Driven by lifetime loves of nature and travel, Mary traveled extensively throughout the world. Most recently she visited Thailand and soon thereafter undertook a trek in Africa. During the weeks prior to the onset of her illness, Mary was planning an excursion to explore Argentina. She was an avid hiker who regularly walked the deserts and mountains of her adopted home accompanied by friends and her faithful dogs. Enjoying a home nestled near the foot of Sandia Mountain, Mary relished the opportunity to share the beautiful New Mexican landscape and culture with family members. Her casa was always filled with friends, companion animals and wonderful food. Fascinating hikes were launched from her front door during the early morning with the knowledge that, at day's end, views of the sun setting on the mountain awaited during relaxing evenings sitting on her patio.

In early 2020, Mary married the love of her life, Liliana Jurewiez, who survives her and remains in Albuquerque. Mary leaves a lifetime of wonderful memories to her family and friends. She will be deeply missed.^[1]

Remembrances

It is with the heaviest of hearts that I announce that Mary Young has passed away after a struggle with cancer. As many long time Wilde Bunchers know, she was simply a ray of light on the dance floor. Always willing to help new students and join squares that needed additional people. She took on the roll of announcing donations for the "Panda Jar" after her partner, Jean, passed away. This is a loss of such an amazing soul and she will be so very missed. Services are yet to be announced by her wife, Liliane. I encourage all who knew her to post their warm memories and pictures.
— Adam Olivieri, President Wilde Bunch

This is just horrible news. I was going to ask at our last zoom if anyone had heard from Mary. She was a sweet soul.
— Georgian Spata

Oh no. RIP Mary. We’ll miss you. 😪🙏
— Janice-Bill Taylor

Oh my goodness how did I not know she was even sick? I hope she had people around her.
— Holly Deuel Gilster

Such very sad news 😢
— Anne Uebelacker

So very sad. I did not know she had been sick
— Vicki Hontas

She will be missed. I'm so sorry.
— Susan Moore

I loved the energy that Jean and Mary brought to the Wilde Bunch. They were both very kind and loving souls. Rest in Peace, Mary.
— Bill Eyler

I loved your patience and your kindness Mary. Rest.
— Steven Luchini

Mary had the warmest of hearts and treated everyone as if they were a life-long friend. RIP Mary, your love and energy will be greatly missed.
— James E Wenger