Louis Youga, 62

Louis Roy Youga, age 62, of Sturgis, was born on February 17, 1962, to William John Youga Sr. and Gretha Joy (Britton) Youga in Harrison City, Pennsylvania. During his lifetime, Lou lived in Michigan, Illinois, and Tennessee.

Louis was a proud veteran of the United States Navy where he served for 3 plus years as a Gunner’s Mate Missiles Seaman (GMMSN) on the USS Tattnall (DDG-19) guided missile destroyer.

After the Navy, Louis worked for various uncles in farming, construction, and plumbing, and later drove truck hauling boats.

In his younger years, he was always willing to help family and friends with projects, hobbies, and home improvements. He was generous with his time and talents. Whether remodeling a bathroom or building a bridge, Lou could be counted on to be there if he was asked to help. Later in life, Lou particularly enjoyed sports and politics, and in general lived his life his way.

Lou was the twin brother to the late Charles Youga, who also joined the Navy along with Lou, but sailed on the USS Independence.

Louis passed on Saturday, December 14, 2024, after a long battle with several health issues. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother Charles, as well as grandparents and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by 2 brothers, John (Lisa) Youga of Three Rivers, Henry “Joe” Youga (Amanda Grooms) of Columbus, OH; 4 sisters, Leone (Shannon) Kirkpatrick of Hillsdale, Phyllis (Michael) Youga-Wilson of Sturgis, Sandra Youga of Coldwater, and Samantha (Jim) Pearl of Saint Johns, MI. He is also survived by his son Samual Herman of Kalamazoo, and a daughter Kayla (Juan) Gaspar of Detroit, as well as several grandchildren.

Though he has rejoined his twin brother Charles and his mom and dad, and many cherished aunts and uncles in Heaven, he will be sorely missed here on earth.

In honoring Louis’s wishes, his body will be gifted to a medical school. A gathering of family and friends to celebrate and honor the life of Louis Roy Youga will take place from 12:00 to 3:00 Sunday, Dec. 22nd at Neuman-Wenzel Post #73 American Legion, 500 W. Chicago Road in Sturgis.

The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial donations would be appreciated to See Me Home Senior Dog Sanctuary, 25019 Featherstone Rd., Sturgis, MI 49091.

We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.