Martha Joan Young

Martha "Joan" Young, 81, of Churubusco, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026.

She was born on September 6, 1944, in Kendallville, to the late John and Bernice (Keck) Gienger. Joan spent her formative years in her hometown, where she graduated from Kendallville High School in 1962.

On July 26, 1969, Joan married the love of her life, Frank Young, in Avilla, Indiana. Their union was characterized by love, companionship, and shared joy. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Julie and Mark, who were always the center of her world. Joan took immense pride in being a grandmother and great-grandmother; all of her grandchildren brought her great joy.

Joan dedicated her life to her family and helping her husband on the family farm. After her family was raised, she began her career at Autojectors, where she worked diligently for 12 years, before continuing her professional journey at Phoenix Mixers for 3 years. Throughout her life, Joan demonstrated a remarkable work ethic and a passion for supporting her family.

A devoted sports fan, Joan loved all sports and had an unwavering love for Indiana University basketball. Her love for these sports became a cherished part of her identity, and she enjoyed sharing this passion with her family and friends.

Joan is survived by her loving husband, Frank Young; her children, Julie (Scott) Miller and Mark (Shannon) Young; seven grandchildren, Justin (Alyssa) Miller, Nicholas (Taylor) Miller, Holly (Fiance' Jared) Miller, Griffin (Taylor) Young, Rusty (Alli) Young, Jeremy (Peyton) Young, and Corey (Nevaeh) Young; eight great-grandchildren, Brantley, Baxter, Brox, Barrett, Caden, Carter, Chance, Cameron, and one great-granddaughter on the way.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Mert and Dick Gienger; her sisters, Carolyn Getts and Dorothy Edsall.

A funeral Service will take place at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home, Churubusco Chapel, on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with calling one hour prior to the service.

The family will also receive family and friends at Sheets & Childs Funeral Home, Churubusco Chapel, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Martha will be laid to rest at Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.

Memorials may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House or Cancer Services of Noble County.

Sheets & Childs Funeral Home has been entrusted with these arrangements.