Roland Keith Young Obituary (2024)

Roland K. Young, 70, of Yakima, WA, departed life on March 15, 2024 after a long cancer illness. Roland grew up in inner-city Richmond, CA. An identical twin in a family of nine children. His Dad Eugene Young was a gentle, hard-working man -- and Lillie Mae was a no-nonsense stay at home Mom. Roland received a B.A. in Urban Planning from Stanford University where he held a dual scholarship, academic and athletic. Roland's early career was in regional natural gas transmission from the Canadian gas fields south through the Pacific Northwest. In 2012, Roland and his wife, Cheryl relocated from Georgia to Yakima, WA to work at Heritage University where he served as the Director of Title V Cooperative Grants. In 2016 he joined the Board of Directors for Opportunities Industrialization Center of WA (OIC). Roland served several terms as Board Secretary. He was influential in expanding educational and career services programs. A humble man, a man of dignity and grace. Roland treated everyone with special care and attention. He enjoyed hosting social gatherings and spending time with family. He and his wife were members of the Eastside Church of Christ, Yakima, WA. Shortly after retiring, Roland became ill. However, Roland faced his illness with courage and grace, his words were, "I've lived a good life, I've had a full life. I have no regrets." "I will be a witness to God's Glory." Roland K. Young, the forever gentleman will be forever missed. Roland is survived by his wife of 27 years, Cheryl; two granddaughters, Courtney Farmer and Cameron Wheaton (Anthony); great grandsons, Austin, Ethan, Dallas, Royal, and Roland. Please make donations to the Prostate Cancer Research Institute. A memorial service will be held from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on 2024-04-06 at Seasons Performance Hall, 101 N Naches Avenue, Yakima, WA 98901. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. www.brooksidefuneral.com