Mary Lou Young

Born March 4, 1946, in Springfield, Ohio, Mary Lou was the daughter of William and Catherine (Hayes) Piatt. She graduated from Springfield North High School in 1964. On September 5, 1966, she married her husband, Ernie Young, at East High Church of Christ in Springfield, beginning a lifelong journey of devotion.

In her early years, Mary Lou’s heart was centered on the home. She was a dedicated mother who extended her nurturing spirit to others by operating an in-home daycare. Her calling to care for others eventually led her back to school at Northern Michigan University, where she earned her degree in nursing. She went on to serve as a compassionate LPN in the oncology unit at Marquette General Hospital for many years, a role that reflected her gentle kindness.

A woman of steady faith, Mary Lou was a member of the Church of Christ in Marquette, where she taught Sunday School and ladies’ Bible studies for many years. She enjoyed painting, woodworking, and spent many peaceful hours in her flower gardens. She took particular pride in her lilac bushes, a fragrant reminder of her patience and care.

Mary Lou’s greatest legacy remains her family. She is survived by her children: Jeremy (Donna) Young, Bethany Wohler, Jonathan (Jennifer) Young, and Tabitha (Adam) LaJoie. She was a cherished grandmother to Justin, Chloe (John), McKenna, Rebecca, Molly, Zachary, Ryan, Hannah, Haley, Bailey, and Alli; and a proud great-grandmother to Braylee, Waylon, Walker, Wade, and Wallen. She also leaves behind her sisters, Janice Hill and Fern Merriman, and a large circle of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernie, in 2016; her parents; her brother, William; and her sister, Bess.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 am at the Church of Christ in Marquette. A funeral service celebrating her life will begin at 11:00 am with Minister James Larson officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall, with interment to take place at Park Cemetery.

Mary’s service will be live-streamed at https://tinyurl.com/marylouyoung

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com