Phyllis M. Young

Phyllis M. Young, age 93, of Traverse City, Michigan (formerly of Saginaw, Michigan) passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, surrounded by family. She was born on August 22, 1933, in River Rouge, Michigan, the only child of Ross and Olive (Mingay) Starkweather.

Phyllis was a 1954 graduate of Albion College, where she met and married Peter Young of Saginaw, Michigan. They were married for 44 years. Phyllis graduated with a degree in early childhood education, and was also an accomplished pianist. Over the years she enjoyed conducting the youth choir and playing the organ at her church, as well as teaching private piano lessons. Music was truly her greatest joy, and she passed this love down to her three daughters.

Phyllis is survived by her children, Mary (Mark) Zook, Pamela Finkel and Jane (Kevin) Rhodes, and her grandchildren, Josef and Kirsten Zook, Tyler Finkel and Jane (Brian) Spencer. She was preceded in death by her husband, H. Peter Young.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Orchard Creek Supportive Care for their exemplary care and kindness and to Hospice of Michigan for their unwavering support, compassion and love.

Friends of Phyllis and her family are invited to attend a celebration of her life on November 1, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the Traverse City Philharmonic Center, 1724 Garfield Ave., Traverse City, Michigan 49686.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memoires with Phyllis’ family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.