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Derek & Elaine Young Fund

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Derek Lamont Young, loved son of Rutgers, passed away Sunday March 22, 2020 with his mother Elaine Young at his side. Plainfield High and Rutgers Football were his pride, joy and claim to fame! Derek was the 1985 Rutgers Homecoming King,  President of Livingston College Class of 1987 Alumni Association, Letter Winner, Former Rutgers Football Team Manager and one-man marketing machine for Rutgers University.  #RedFedora.  Derek could be seen at many a RU function, game, or event sporting his Rutgers Red Fedora or his Rutgers Suess hat.  Derek was a committed friend to everyone he met and he never missed an opportunity to make a new friend.  He brought people together in ways that few could rival.  He was unique with a broad smile, funny laugh, and animated words while speaking to all. Derek had been diagnosed with advanced tongue cancer and due to complications had a heart attack and had not regained consciousness since that event in late January 2020.

The only thing Derek loved more than friends, Plainfield and Rutgers University was his mother Elaine.  He was a dedicated and loyal son.  His mother, along with his faith, were his guiding light.  Derek was the sole caregiver for his mother who, over the years, had suffered several strokes which left her partially paralyzed, unable to use her left arm and leg.  As an only child, Derek shouldered the responsibility admirably even while he battled his own medical challenges. 

As Derek was the full time caregiver for his mother, he was not employed.  We have transitioned Elaine from their apartment to a nearby nursing home.  Derek's mom is now in need of funds to cover the varied expenses such as moving, cleaning the apartment, temporary storage, final expenses, etc., etc.

As NJ State Covid-19 protocol prohibits normal funeral arrangements, a memorial will be planned possibly in the Fall. 

In Memory of Derek, we ask for your support.
Whatever funds are raised beyond their need will be donated in Derek's name to Rutgers University for student scholarships.
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Donations 

  • Anonymous
    • $20
    • 4 yrs
  • Joel Endick
    • $25
    • 5 yrs
  • Anonymous
    • $10
    • 5 yrs
  • Jennifer Lenahan
    • $50
    • 5 yrs
  • Ralph Zemel
    • $100
    • 5 yrs
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Organizer

Scott Blow
Organizer
Plainfield, NJ

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