Joseph E. Young

Joseph E. “Mighty Joe” Young, of Roscoe, Illinois, passed away peacefully with his devoted family by his side on May 24, 2026. He was born in Rockford, Illinois, on September 24, 1948, to Howard and Ferne Young.

Joe attended local schools and graduated from Harlem High School in 1966. Shortly after graduation, he began a tool-and-die apprenticeship, beginning a career that reflected his strong work ethic, creativity, and determination.

While attending high school, Joe met the love of his life, Linda. The two were married following her graduation in 1967 and shared a devoted marriage filled with love, family, and countless memories together.

Joe worked for many years as a machinist in the Rockford area. His entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mind led him to design, patent, and manufacture a hammer that became widely used among machinists. This accomplishment inspired him to establish his first company, Industrial Hammer Supply. After successfully building and selling that business, Joe went on to found Volga Industries, a machining company he later sold as well. As his health began to decline, Joe made the decision to retire and spend more time enjoying life with those he loved most.

Joe had a deep love for his Labrador Retrievers and found great happiness in time spent with family, especially his children and grandchildren. He treasured the companionship of his siblings and the simple joys shared with loved ones and pets alike. Some of his favorite memories were made fishing and camping in Iowa, where he felt most at peace.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his children, April (Mike) Kunzelman, Terry (Josh Karlzon) Young, and Amy Young; his cherished grandchildren, Jonathan and Mars Von Vittinghoff; his sisters, Barb (Howard) Speiser and Beverley (Duane) Barclay; his brother, Dave (Judy) Young; many nieces and nephews; and dear friends Tom Perkins, Dave Brempell, and many others whose lives were touched by his kindness and friendship.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Earl and Ken Young; and his sister, Sherri Darnell.

On Joe’s behalf, his family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his sister-in-law, Diane Young, for all she has done during this difficult time.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of Joe’s life will be held at a later date.

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