Dirk A. De Young, 75, passed away and joined his family and friends in Heaven on Saturday, October 25, 2014.
He was born on June 23, 1939 in Waukegan, IL to the late Arthur and Margaret (McNeil) De Young. Dirk graduated from Lake Forest College in 1961 and then attended Naval Officer Candidate School from 1961 to 1962. He served four years of active duty in the U.S. Navy and then over a decade in the reserves.
Dirk touched numerous people with his kindness throughout his career in real estate. He began his career at Smokey Lake Reserve in Phelps, WI. He then owned and operated De Young and Bangs Real Estate in Eagle River, WI, and later joined Realty World, working with many people throughout North America. Thereafter he entered the building and design industry working at President Homes, later becoming part-owner of Homeworx Partners. After retiring, Dirk enjoyed volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.
Dirk was known for his wit and large repertoire of jokes. He was always working on home improvement projects and was dedicated to improving his golf game. He was an avid reader, especially of history and historical fiction, and was interested in antique cars. He loved traveling and exploring new places with family and friends. He loved the water--a daily morning swim in Door County and taking family and friends for boat rides to watch the sunset.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen Yindra; four children, Darcy (Tory) Rahm of Lakewood, CO, Graham De Young of Grafton, WI, Peter De Young of Seattle, WA, and James De Young of Seattle, WA; two grandchildren, Jakson and Jessen; a sister, Betty Jo (Michael) Gadsby of Grayslake, IL; a niece, Erika (Aaron) Jones of Vollo, IL; and other relatives and friends.
A memorial service in remembrance of Dirk will be held on Monday, October 27 at 1:00 p.m. at the Myrhum-Patten Funeral Home, 1315 W. Washington St., West Bend, WI. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Monday from 12:00 Noon until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Habitat for Humanity or your local animal shelter or rescue service.