William 'Bill' Young

William A. Young (Bill), of Champaign, formerly of Danville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday (January 23, 2024) at Accolade Nursing Home in Savoy.

Bill was born on August 17, 1932, in Danville, to John Russel and Marjorie Brown Young. Bill graduated from Rossville High School in 1950. He graduated from the University of Illinois (U of I) in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Law. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served in Germany. He received an honorable discharge from the Army with a rank of First Lieutenant. Bill then attended the U of I Law School and obtained a Juris Doctorate in 1958. He married Sandra Chalice Deitz on June 11, 1959, in Taylorville, Illinois. They raised two children during their 64 years of marriage.

Surviving are his wife, Sandra, sister Marilyn Mihm of Danville; daughter, Karen of Danville; son, David (Beth) of Champaign; granddaughters, Meredith (Adam), Rachel, Hannah, Brooke, and JD; grandsons, Lucas, Druhan, and Will; and his great-grandson, David. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers, Chuck and John.

After law school, Bill served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Illinois. Bill then had a private law practice in Danville for 50 years. He especially enjoyed practicing law with his brother Chuck; nephew Frank; Danny Welsh, and Charlie Hall. He received numerous awards including those recognizing his pro bono work. Bill volunteered his time for various activities in the Danville community. He was a member of Danville Noon Rotary, Danville Jaycees, and Danville Elks Lodge 332. He was also a member of St. James United Methodist Church in Danville.

Bill was an avid Illini sports fan, golfer, and poker player. He loved his family and appreciated his friends. He was a kind, gentle man and will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at a future date. The family has entrusted Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, IL 61834 to assist them in honoring Bills life. The family would also like to express their deep appreciation for the kindness and care given by the loving people at Accolade.

Please join Bills family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com .