John P Young, known by “JP”, passed away on August 16, 2022 in Oakland, California. JP was born in Schenectady, New York on December 1, 1924. He later moved to Ardmore, a suburb of Philadelphia, with his family. He attended Episcopal Academy, The Lawrenceville School, and Harvard University. JP served as a Medic and Sergeant in the 2nd World War, earning three Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart. He was captured in the Battle of the Bulge and survived an extended stint in prison camp through the end of the war. At the conclusion of the war JP returned to Harvard University to complete a double major in International Relations and Economics. After graduating from Harvard, JP returned to Paris for two years during which time he became fluent in the French Language. JP married Barbara Smit in 1951. They raised four children together. JP and Barbara were married until 1997 when she passed away. They lived in Philadelphia until moving to Oakland, California in 1994 to be near their adult children. They also maintained a country home in Van Hornesville, New York. Late in life JP married Carolee Young, his brother’s widow, who then pre-deceased him in 2005. JP had a distinguished career with Smith, Kline & French – now known as GlaxoSmithKline. The important work that he did in helping to bring new medications to market in the United States involved extensive international travel throughout Europe and Japan. Of his many hobbies, he was most engaged by his music. JP loved playing his violin, both with amateur orchestras, and also chamber music ensembles. He enjoyed sight singing and the study of orchestral scores. JP also enjoyed tennis, fishing, acting, poetry and preparing French cuisine. He was gracious, curious and gregarious, developing friendships with people from all walks of life. 

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JP is survived by his four children, Peter Young, Rebecca Young, Eliza Young and Constance Young; their spouses; three grandsons; two great-grandchildren; five step-children; and an extended family that includes well over 100 nieces, nephews and cousins of various generations. 

 

Memorial Services

There will be two memorial services for JP.

• Saturday October 1st at 11:00 am; Clarewood Drive, Oakland, CA, 94618 

• Saturday October 29th at 2:00 pm; Mill Pond Community Center, Route 80, Van Hornesville, NY, 13475 

 

Donations in honor of JP

To honor a life well lived, donations may be sent to: 

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