Chip Lee Young (November 7, 1955 - February 22, 2024)

Chip Young, beloved in the hearts of many, passed away peacefully at SMP Health-St. Raphael in Valley City, ND, under the compassionate care of hospice on February 22, 2024. He was 68 years old.

Chip was born to Ralph and Ada Young in Malta, Mont., on November 7, 1955. As a proud Malta Mustang, he shone brightly as a local sports star before graduating in 1974. His athletic prowess led him to the United States Air Force Academy, where he played football before transferring to Montana State University in 1975. There he and his fellow Bobcats clinched a National Championship in 1976, a feat that forever etched their names into the MSU Hall of Fame in 1988. It's at MSU that Chip would also meet his future spouse of 29 years, Butte, Mont. native Ann Lind. The two would later welcome their children, Derek and Angela.

After college, Chip worked as a landman securing mineral rights in northern Montana, followed by a couple of years in real estate before moving to Denver, Colo., where he established a thriving career at General Motors. His excellence as a branch manager in GMAC's finance division opened doors to opportunities which would lead his young family to Traverse City, Mich., and Crystal Lake, Ill., before eventually relocating to Fargo, N.D. in 2003.

Outside the boardroom, Chip excelled as an avid golfer and a skilled billiards and ping pong player, but his true passion lay in celebrating his children and their achievements.

With a gentle soul and a generous heart, he championed their endeavors and reveled in their victories.

Recently, when asked about his fondest memories, Chip's eyes would light up as he recounted the joy of becoming a grandfather. His legacy lives on through his three granddaughters: twins Jade/Gianna, and little sister, Greta, who shares his birthday.

Chip was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Ada Young, in-laws Murray and Jean Lind, brothers-in-law Kent Jones and Larry Hicks, nephew Shad Spencer, and his beloved black lab, Cole. His absence leaves a void felt deeply by his children: Derek Young of Denver, Colo., and Angela (Al) Honzay of Fargo. His siblings, Dirk (Mary) Young of Trinity, Fla., and Trudy Hicks of Franklin, OH, mourn his passing as does his beloved Annie (Jon) Roehl of Fergus Falls, Minn., and many lifelong friends who still echo his boisterous laughter and retell his cherished stories.

The family plans to honor Chip's memory with a celebration of life this summer in Malta, where he will find his final resting place. May his spirit continue to inspire and uplift those who knew and loved him.

The Lerud Mathias Funeral Home in Valley City, N.D. is assisting the family. An online guestbook is available at http://www.lerudmathias.com on Chip's tribute page.