Fred Younker

Fred Oscar Younker was born January 10, 1935 in Applegate, California. Fred was the eldest son of Roy David Younker, Sr. (a professional baseball player with the Pacific Coast League) and Wynona May Washburn. Fred grew up in Auburn, California where he graduated from Auburn High School. He married Gwendolyn Hathaway February 1, 1953. They had three children, Randall, Gregory, and Lisa. Fred attended Pacific Union College in Angwin California, earning a B.A. degree in theology in 1965. Fred then worked as a teacher and insurance agent during his years with Gwen. Fred later married Ruth Pepke April 28, 1969 in Las Vegas, Nevada. They lived in Reno and then Fallon, Nevada for many years where Fred continued working as an independent insurance agent. He later worked as a medical supplies transport driver. As Ruth’s health began to decline Fred and Ruth moved to Berrien Springs, MI to be closer to his son, Randy and family. Ruth passed away March 3, 2014. Fred then married Nancy Payne November 9, 2014 at the Village Seventh-day Adventist church. They spent several happy years in retirement, traveling both in the U.S. and overseas—sometimes doing mission or church related work. They eventually learned that Fred had ALS which led to a slow decline in his health during the last couple years of his life. Facing his decline with courage and faith, he eventually succumbed to the disease December 26, 2019. Fred is survived by his wife, Nancy, his children, Randall Wayne Younker, Gregory Alan Younker, Lisa ReNee Darden, 11 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Services were held Saturday, December 28, 2019 at the Village Seventh-day Adventist Church in Berrien Springs. Memorials may be made to the Village Seventh-day Adventist School Worthy Student Fund. Those wishing to share a memory of Fred online may do so at www.heritage-chapel.com. Fred now awaits the resurrection promised by his Lord.