Marlene Gaynor Young February 21, 1948 - November 1, 2024

Marlene Gaynor Young (February 21, 1948-November 1, 2024)

Marlene Gaynor Young, of Stanwood, Washington, was called home on November 1, 2024. Born on February 21, 1948, in Oakland, California, Marlene was known throughout life for her bubbly personality and quirky sense of humor. She won the affection of many, including election by her fellow students as the high school’s master of ceremonies by strutting on stage to the music of David Rose’s “The Stripper.” While students cheered, the faculty tried not to be particularly amused; however, their smiles gave them away.

Marlene attended nursing school in Ashland, Oregon, where she met her former husband and nurse practitioner, Ron Young. She later received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from California State University and Women’s Health Care Nurse Practitioner certificate from the University of California.

Beyond her high school antics and college career, Marlene dedicated her life to caring for animals and people. Friends would suggest the first words out of her mouth were “dog” and “horse.” An avid animal lover, she opened her home to many “good dogs,” providing a comfortable and happy life for each of them, often taking them for walks and playdates with friends. You could always count on Marlene to have dog treats in her pockets.

Marlene began riding horses as a young girl and that love grew into competitive trail riding. She treasured her horses and the Pacific Northwest trails she rode them on alongside her
dear friends. On a nice day, you could find Marlene at the barn brushing her mule, Braymore, and feeding him carrots and other healthy treats.

As a nurse practitioner, Marlene spent many years vigilantly caring for her patients. She was a problem solver and would do whatever she could to help. She was thoughtful and generous, always thinking of others and supporting a good cause.

More recently, Marlene’s joy extended to the friendships she found participating in Zumba classes. It was not unusual for her to attend several classes a week, driving all over Snohomish County to dance with her favorite instructors. She was the life of the party and an inspiration to all who danced with her.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents, Irving and Firley Gaynor. She will be dearly missed by her only brother, retired US Army Colonel Jeffrey Gaynor, of Alpharetta, Georgia, and countless friends all of whom were touched by her wit, kindness, and generosity. She also leaves behind her beloved dogs, Churro and Lily, and mule, Braymore.

Memorial ceremonies are being planned for the spring of 2025. Celebrations will be held along a trail she frequently rode and at a Zumba event in her honor. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Marlene’s name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Old Dog Haven, PO Box 1409, Oak Harbor, WA 98277, and police and emergency medical service organizations in Snohomish County.