Lois Elaine Young, 85, of Ottumwa, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025 at Vista Woods Care Center in Ottumwa
Born August 17, 1940 in Pulaski, Iowa, Lois was the daughter of Kenneth and Marie Birchmier.
Lois worked in various bookkeeping positions throughout her career, retiring from the Davis & Lewis C.P.A. firm. Beyond her professional life, Lois was deeply involved in her community. She was a member of ABWA (American Business Women’s Association), served on the Board of Trustees at Willard Street United Methodist Church and she served many years on the Ottumwa Oktoberfest Committee. She volunteered several years with the Hospice Serving Davis and Wapello Counties auxiliary, where she served many years as the President. She also volunteered 20 years at the Iowa State Fair.
Lois found joy in simple pleasures, baking for loved ones, canning vegetables from her garden and fruit trees, reading Amish books, knitting and spending time with her grandkids.
She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 46 years, Ralph Young; daughters, Stephanie Courtney (David Frederick) and Kim Garner (Rich Garner); grandchildren, Matthew Courtney, Zach Garner (Julie Griffiths), Jessica Courtney and Kourtney Cortez (Javier Cortez); great-grandchildren, Isabella Cortez and Mateo Cortez.
Lois was preceded in death by her first husband, John Conklin and by her parents.
Lois’ memories live on through the many lives she touched throughout her 85 years.
Her body has been cremated.
Memorial services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 10th at Reece Funeral Home. The family will be present to greet friends one hour prior to the service.
Inurnment will be in Shaul Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church or Care Initiatives Hospice, Albia.
