William D. Young

William D. "Bill" Young passed away on Wednesday October 21, 2009. Bill was born on February 24, 1922 in Hale Center, Texas to Ray and Annice Young. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to Elmdale, where he grew up on the family ranch and went to school graduating from Eula High School. Bill served his country in the Army Air Corps during World War II. He flew C-47 transport missions over Europe. After his discharge he attended Hardin-Simmons University, where he earned a degree in Physical Education. He also met and married Ellen Marie (Em) Young. Bill then began a career working at the Callahan County Abstract plant in Baird, Texas. After that he worked as an oil scout for The Texas Company (Texaco). He then became a landman and worked for the Chicago Corporation in Abilene and Oklahoma City. In the early 1960's the family relocated to Abilene, and Bill worked as an Independent Landman until his retirement. Bill was a charter member of the American Association of Professional Landmen. He had been a certified professional landman since 1980. He was a faithful member of St. Paul United Methodist Church and the Griswold Sunday School class. Bill's success both personally and professionally was based on his ability to find the best in each person he met. This quality allowed him to negotiate contracts with landowners, greet each county clerk by name and make friends with everyone he met. He was happiest spending time at the "country" with his cattle, dog, and family. Bill taught each of his children and grandchildren to drive while they sat on a feed sack in his pickup. Bill is survived by his wife of 62 years, Em Young; son S. Craig Young and wife Jenny Young; daughter Diane McIntire and husband James McIntire; and grandchildren, Josh Young and wife Lisa Young, Melissa Ackors and M. Reed Young. He is also survived by 3 brothers and 1 sister. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 24, at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 525 Beech Street in Abilene, officiated by Dr. Eduardo Rivera. A reception will follow the service at the church. Visitation will be held on Friday from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd. A private family graveside service will be held in Elmwood Memorial Park. Memorials should be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church 525 Beech Street Abilene, Texas 79601 Pallbearers will be Glen Shedd, Jerry Fincher, Bill Schumacher, John Beckham, John Slaughter and Pat Mouser. Honorary pallbearers include Pete Barbee, Robert J. Schumacher, Jerry Namy, Carl Trusler, Don Blackburn, Paul Maslanka and Bob Surovik.