Michael Youger

(From Ledford Family Funeral Home)

Michael Lynn Youger, 61, of Lexington, Missouri passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at NorthCare Hospice House in North Kansas City, MO surrounded by family.

Michael was born on January 1, 1963, in Waynesburg, PA to Kenneth and Carole (Smith) Youger. He graduated from Carmichaels High School in Carmichaels, PA. Michael received his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, MO. He also served in the Missouri National Guard. 

Michael was very devoted to his students and worked for the Lexington R-V and then Richmond-XVI School Districts for 18 plus years. He was a Special Education Teacher and later worked as a Paraprofessional mostly with special education students. Michael was the past Science Olympiad Coach for Lexington and the current Head Coach for the Richmond Science Olympiad Program. He was very proud that many of his students advanced to the State Tournament each year and some earned medals. Michael was a Parent Aid for the Families First program. 

When Michael was not helping others, he loved watching Harry Potter and Nightmare Before Christmas. He enjoyed cooking, finding unique restaurants and especially ones from Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and taking trips to visit restaurants featured on the show. 

Michael was also known as an excellent cook; he loved trying new dishes and cooking unique meals that were not mainstream. He was known for his smoked ribs. Michael had a love for art and drawing. In addition to spending time with family and friends, Michael enjoyed tinkering on his Jeep, and traveling with Julie on their yearly trips to the beach to relax and enjoy the ocean.

 

Michael is survived by his longtime partner, Julie Wandell of Lexington, MO; daughter, Winnie Youger-Rash and son-in-law, Jeffrey Youger-Rash of Richmond, MO; seven grandchildren, Jessica Beecher, Ivy Wandell, Kennedy Wandell, Nehemiah Looney, Jezebel Looney, Elizabell Looney, and Ariahbele Looney; step daughter, Brittany Wandell; two sisters, Lois (Mike) Beecher of Salem, OR and Bonnie Walker of Clarksville, PA; three brothers, Timothy (Abita) Youger of Sheridan, OR, Douglas (Sheila) Youger of Independence, MO, and Scott Youger of Mapletown, PA; a childhood best friend, Chris Pratt of Carmichaels, PA; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Youger and David Youger.