Bill Youngdale, 87, of Turlock, passed away on July 3, 2014 at Stanford Hospital.  He was born to Frank J. and Esther Myhren Youngdale at Emanuel Hospital in Turlock. 

He attended local schools, including Hawthorne and Lowell, and graduated from Turlock High School with the Class of ‘44.  He served 2½ years in the Merchant Marine.  Upon returning to Turlock he joined his father, mother, and brother Frank at Youngdale’s while earning his A.A. degree at Modesto Junior College. 

In the summer of 1949 he met his future wife, Alberta Caffey, at her parents’ farm on Soderquist Road while on a service call with Hiro Asai to repair a refrigerator.  They married on May 6, 1950 and two years later their first daughter Lynne was born.  In 1954, they moved to their current home and welcomed second daughter Dara.  In 1958, their third daughter Sonia was born. 

Bill worked side-by-side with his parents, brother Frank, and sister Mary Lou, building and expanding Youngdale’s, Inc.  The appliance department flourished under his leadership to become the cornerstone of this Turlock retail landmark.  He enjoyed a long and successful career, retiring after 50 years on Christmas Eve, 1997.

Although a dedicated businessman, Bill had many outside interests.  He exercised daily and ran in numerous races.  He played tennis and was an avid snow skier, enjoying ski trips with Alberta in the U.S. and Europe, and helicopter skiing with friends in Canada.  He took up scuba diving and had great adventures with his dive buddies, collecting specimens for Steinhart Aquarium.  He had the great pleasure of diving with his daughter Lynne and grandson, Chris.  Business rewarded Bill and Alberta with numerous opportunities to see the world, sparking a love of travel that continued well into retirement. 

Bill’s passion was Turlock and its continued success as a thriving community in which to raise a family. He treasured his childhood memories, his relationships with friends, and was committed throughout his life to support Turlock’s future.  He was a member of the 20-30 Club, served 17 years on the Planning Commission, was a member of the Stanislaus State College Advisory Committee, and was an active member of the Turlock Historical Society.  He valued his Christian upbringing and attended Turlock Covenant Church all of his life. 

After retiring, Bill finally had time to play golf, take long voyages, and spend special times with his extended family.  He lived his faith through kindness, generosity, and many thoughtful acts.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Alberta, daughters Lynne, Dara and Sonia, sons-in-law Jim, Steve and Laverne, grandchildren Chris, Laura, Claudia and Grace, and sister Mary Lou.  He is also survived by many adoring nieces and nephews, in-laws, members of his coffee group, card club, and golf buddies.

A memorial service will be held at Turlock Funeral Home 425 N. Soderquist Rd., in Turlock,  on Friday, July 11, at 11 a.m.  Private interment will take place at Turlock Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity or organization of the donor’s choice.