Thomas David Young

Thomas David “Coach” Young, of Holly, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025 surrounded by his family and Pastor Robbie of the Fenton First Presbyterian Church. Born in Holly on Friday, March 13, 1945, to Alice (Bush) Young and Thomas Patrick Young, at Ma Perry’s Maternity Home in Holly, he spent his life rooted in the community he loved. His Bush family heritage runs deep, with Bush Lake in Holly and Bush Park in Fenton named after his ancestors—reflecting a family legacy of shaping the community. Coach Young graduated from Holly High School in 1963, where he played football, basketball, and track, and was deeply involved in student life as Class President, Student Council member, and part of the Audio Visual club. In 1968, he graduated from Oakland University with a degree in Mathematics and trained as a pipefitter. He went on to retire from General Motors after 55 years, where he was well respected by his colleagues. Beyond his professional life, Dave found his calling in service, mentorship, and athletics. He was very active in Holly Little League coaching, administration, maintenance and umpiring. When his eldest daughter Laurie began playing sports, he and his wife Teresa became deeply involved in the Holly Athletic Department and Boosters, dedicating over 25 years to the program. Dave coached JV Girls Basketball, JV Girls Softball, and Freshman Boys Basketball, promoting teamwork, kindness, and sportsmanship above all. His love and commitment to sports endured in his children through their athletics. David and Teresa were so dedicated to their children they never missed a game. His impact was felt not only through wins and seasons, but in the lives of countless young athletes who saw in him the father figure he himself longed for as a child. His commitment to mentoring extended far beyond the gymnasium—he welcomed students into his home, offered guidance, and made sure every child felt valued. His leadership and kindness were widely recognized: Dave and Teresa were named Holly’s Family of the Year; he was inducted into the Holly Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024. During the holidays, he embraced another beloved role—playing Santa at the Holly Dickens Festival, bringing joy to children year after year. He also served as a Holly Police Department Reserve Officer. Above all, Dave was known for his humor, generosity, and heart. He gave more than he had, carried a playful spirit, and was kind to everyone he met. He cherished Christmas and took great pride in decorating the towering pine tree in his yard, a beacon of light for all who passed by. His legacy is one of love, laughter, and service to others. Dave is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Teresa M. Young; his children Laurie (Tim) Ogilvie, Tracie (Raymond) Romba, Michael (Crystal) Young, Robert (Joycelynn) Young, and Daniel (Andrew Hamby) Young; his brother Stanley (Ginny) Young; his sister Marilyn Edwins; and his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Spencer, Sidney, and Simon Ogilvie; Sophie (Ben) Twohy and their son Dawson (great-grandson); Gavin and Ashton Young; Mitchel Travers; Owen and Paige Dillon; Addie, Kennedie, and Lainey Foster. He is also survived by Martha Coleman and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his sister Nancy and Gene Brandt, brother-in-law Art Edwins, and his mother Alice Young and father Thomas Young. Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 from 2:00 - 7:00 pm at Dryer Funeral Home in Holly, Michigan. Funeral services will be held at Fenton First Presbyterian Church, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, with visitation start at 9:00 am and service to begin at 10:00 am with a luncheon provided directly after at the church . The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Fenton First Presbyterian Church or Adopt-A-Pet Fenton. Dave’s life was defined by kindness, family, and community. He leaves behind a legacy of mentorship and love that will live on in the many lives he touched.

Thomas David Young

March 13, 1945 - September 10, 2025