Synod Spotlight: The Rev. Dr. Robert Young

Rev. Dr. Young receiving his doctorate during Reformation Sunday church services at Zion Lutheran Church as depicted in the newspaper

Robert Young had been the oldest rostered leader in the La Crosse Area Synod until 2025, having served 69 years in ordained ministry and living to the age of 101. Robert Young was born on June 18, 1923, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He completed his education at South Side High School in Fort Wayne, graduating in 1940. Following that, Robert attended Indiana University, where he earned both a B.S. and an M.B.A. in 1946. That same year, Robert married Clarlynn Martha Young, a graduate from Ft. Wayne North Side HS and DePauw University. Clarlynn, a dedicated teacher, supported his ministry until her passing.

In 1956, Robert was ordained as a minister in the United Lutheran Church after studying at Chicago Theological Seminary. Later, Pastor Young achieved a Doctor of Theology degree, presenting his dissertation titled “The Sanctity and Essentiality of Grace in Biblical Witness.”

Robert has served churches in Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Nevada, and Wisconsin. He also contributed to the Las Vegas Salvation Army, helping with its impactful alcohol and gambling ministries while serving at a church in Las Vegas. As a volunteer in the US Army, he played a significant role in the Philippines Campaign during World War II, forming a deep bond with the local people and consistently supporting those who serve our country.

Upon returning to the United States, he became a sportswriter, covering local high school events and NBA Pistons games. He took great pride in his connection with Branch Rickey, the former President of the Major League Baseball Dodgers, known for his pivotal role in desegregating major league baseball. Robert retired in 1985. Later, he married Jeanne K. Phillips in Sarasota, FL, where they enjoyed the warm climate. Jeanne also passed away, leading Robert to return to Wisconsin to live out the remainder of his life.

Robert (known to his grandkids as “Grandpa Pal”) was a dedicated, smart, inspirational “nice guy”. He appreciated his family, his iPad, and the many wonderful nurses, physicians, and other caregivers. He treasured his children and their spouses, his many grandchildren and great grandchildren, and so many others, and tried to assist those in need. 

Thank you Rev. Dr. Young for your many years of service in ministry. We extend our heartfelt prayers to his family and friends who mourn the loss of this Child of God.

This biography used the Rev. Dr. Young’s rostered leader file, newspaper articles & obituary as primary source material.