Ronald Wayne Young

Born on September 14, 1945, to Joseph “Alex” and Janet (Chaillier) Young. Ron was a graduating member of the Escanaba High School Class of 1964. Following graduation, he honorably answered the call to serve his country in the U.S. Army. Shortly after his return from service, he married his soulmate and the love of his life, Jena Ann Ettenhofer, on September 24, 1966. Together, they spent nearly six decades establishing a foundation of love and a life centered on family.

A man of quiet strength and steady work ethic, Ron dedicated 36 years to the local paper mill before retiring in 2005. While he worked hard to provide, his heart truly belonged to the woods and the water. His greatest joy was passing down family traditions to his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether he was at “Camp-Bag-A-Buck” or navigating the waves on “Fishing Fever,” Ron was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends in the great outdoors.

Ron’s loyalty to his community was unwavering. Ron was a Lifetime member of the Elks Lodge #354 and a dedicated member of the Wells Lions Club. He was a founding force behind the old Superior BMX Track in Wells, traveling across the region to support his sons as they raced. During his downtime, he enjoyed shooting pool for both Escanaba and Gladstone pool leagues and could often be found pitching horseshoes for the Buck Inn alongside Jena.

Ron was also a lifelong, “orange and black”, Eskymo fan, he took immense pride in cheering on his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren through their own achievements as Eskymos. His commitment to the U.P. way of life was reflected in his memberships with the U.P. Trappers Association, Bays de Noc Gobblers Association, Bays de Noc Great Lakes Sport Fisherman Association and U.P. Whitetails Association.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Jena Ann; his sons, Ron (Sandi) Young and Scott Young; and a cherished legacy of grandchildren: Ashleigh, Austin (Samantha), Aaron (Rylie), Madelyn, and Eastin. He was the proud great-grandfather to Owen, Calvin, Cecelia, and his namesake, Charlie Wayne. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph “Alex” and Janet.

Above all, Ron was a man of profound and visible devotion. Whether traveling or enjoying a quiet evening with his “beautiful bride,” his love for his family was the guiding light of his life. He will be remembered as a man who found equal purpose in a hard day’s work and the sanctity of a quiet morning in the woods or calm waters. To Ron, there was no greater joy than a house filled with the laughter of the family he so dearly loved.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm Friday, January 9, 2026, at the St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Escanaba. Funeral services celebrating the life of Ronald Wayne Young will be held at 2:00 pm Friday at the St. Stephens Episcopal Church with Rev. Rayford Ray officiating. Military honors and entombment will follow the funeral services. A luncheon will be served following the funeral services in the church fellowship hall. The Anderson Funeral Homes of Escanaba and Gladstone are assisting the Young family with the arrangements and online condolences can be sent to the family at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.