Firearms History And Collecting
Gordon Bernell Young
Celebrating the Life of Gordon Bernell Young, A Volunteer and Firearms Enthusiast
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Yuma, Arizona
Gordon Bernell Young, born on October 26, 1934, in Mona, Utah, was a man whose life was shaped by service, community involvement, and a profound love for firearms. He passed away in Yuma, Arizona, on August 24, 2025, at the age of 90. A dedicated volunteer, Youngs life spanned many roles, from his military service during the Korean War to his long-term commitment to public safety and his love for the shooting sports. Serving as a young man in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, Youngs commitment to his country and community became evident early in life. After his service, he returned to civilian life, where he worked in various industries, including bottling and transportation. However, it was his work as a community volunteer that made him a beloved figure in his hometown of Payson, Utah. He was an active member of the Payson City Police Reserve and a founding member of the Payson Ambulance Association, contributing to the health and safety of his fellow citizens for many years. In addition to his emergency service work, Young was also deeply involved in teaching and leadership roles. He worked as an EMT instructor, sharing his knowledge and training future generations of first responders. His dedication to public service extended further as a member of the Utah County Search and Rescue and Jeep Patrol, where he took part in countless operations to help those in need across the county. He was known for his leadership in rescue missions, always eager to lend his expertise to any situation. A lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Youngs faith played an integral role in his life. He served in multiple leadership roles within the church, including as a member of the Bishoprics and High Priest Group Leadership. His volunteer work in the church included organizing service projects, managing community outreach programs, and serving as a spiritual guide to many in his congregation. His dedication to helping others was not limited to his professional or community service but was also central to his personal life and faith. Beyond his work in public service, Young was also an avid outdoorsman, deeply passionate about hunting, fishing, and camping. These activities were more than just hobbies; they were part of his personal philosophy of living in harmony with nature. He found great joy in the quiet solitude of the outdoors and often brought others along to share in the experience, imparting his knowledge of survival skills and his love of natures beauty. Perhaps one of the most significant aspects of Youngs life was his dedication to black powder firearms competition. This was an area where he truly thrived, and it was here that he built lasting friendships with fellow enthusiasts. Young spent many years competing in black powder shooting events, where he became known for his skill and passion for the sport. His dedication to preserving the traditions of black powder shooting made him a respected figure within that community. He was not only a competitor but also a mentor to younger shooters, encouraging them to take part in the sport and to understand the rich history behind it.