Davis Alan Young, age 83, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. He was preceded in death by his sister Jean Gaffin. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Dorothy; children Daniel Young (Teresa TerHaar), Timothy Young (Mary Ann Ferris-Young), Tracy Young (Scott Blasco); grandchildren Katie, Olivia, Graham, Jack, Nick, and Sam; brother-in-law Richard Gaffin; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Dave had a distinguished academic and professional journey. With an impressive educational background that includes an undergraduate degree from Princeton, a Master's from Penn State, and a Ph.D. in Geology from Brown University, he laid a solid foundation for a career in academia. His teaching tenure spans across notable institutions such as NYU, UNC-Wilmington, and Calvin College, accumulating to a significant 36 years of shaping minds before retiring in 2004. His contributions to the field extend beyond teaching, with several publications exploring the history of geology and its intersection with Christianity, reflecting a deep engagement with both his discipline and personal faith. Outside of his professional life, he loved classical music. He also pursued birding, a hobby that demonstrates his appreciation for the natural world, complementing his geological expertise with a passion for the diversity of life. His legacy will be found in the quiet kindness, love and generosity of spirit he modeled to his family and friends, his academic contributions, and in the students he has inspired throughout his career.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St. SE, with one hour of visitation prior to the service from 10 to 11 am. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Calvin University or to Wycliffe Bible Translators.