Albert Joseph Young Jr., age 73, of Ferndale, Michigan passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 2, 2025 after a long fought battle with cancer. 

Albert (aka Dr. Youngdog) was a creative force during his lifetime, a man of enormous talents, and loved deeply by many. He was an internationally renowned artist by profession who created, owned, and operated Michigan Hot Glass Workshop, the oldest operating independent glassblowing school in Michigan. Albert was an object maker, ceramicist, glassblower, and sculptor; always the consummate educator, willing to share his depth of knowledge with those who were willing to listen and were fortunate to be in his circle. Along with art, music was his passion, providing another creative outlet and a form of ‘Rock Therapy’ that shaped the way he lived his life. Albert loved a good jam and singing his heart out with abandon, which led to some very special friendships that lasted a lifetime. Whether it was making art or music, Albert was a force and straight shooter by nature. To those who knew him best, he was a generous spirit with a big and tender heart, willing to help those he cared for most, despite his sometimes gruff demeanor. 

The power and beauty of nature fueled Albert’s soul. It was his love of fishing that led him to the beautiful village of Grand Marais, MI and a cabin in the great north woods. He loved spending as much time as he could there with family where a lifetime of memories, music, and friendships were made. Having his very own piece of paradise made for countless adventures: bushwhacking through the woods to find the perfect fishing hole, snowshoeing on a blustery winters day, watching in awe the northern lights dance in the cosmos, and strolling the shores of Lake Superior in pursuit of another beautiful agate. His time spent in nature allowed him space to create, tap into life’s energy force, and refuel his soul. 

Ultimately, it was Albert’s family that was at the heart of everything he lived for. Gathering with loved ones to share in life’s everyday activities and celebrations brought him great joy. Reminiscing and sharing stories at picnics and around campfires was one of his most treasured pastimes, along with discussing the many books he had read. We are truly blessed to have been a part of his life and remember how he touched our lives in so many wonderful ways.  Albert will be missed by all who held him dear in their hearts. He is survived by his wife Catherine of 33 years and his two children Moriah and Nolan. Albert was the eldest of five children and survived by his siblings, George Young, Robert (Joy) Young, Marcia Young, and Victoria (Eric) Zeller. He was preceded by his parents, Albert Sr. and Letha Young. Albert leaves behind a lifetime of incredible memories and amazing creations that will live on through us all. May we continue to honor his legacy, and may his memory be a blessing. 

A celebration of life will be held at Michigan Hot Glass Workshop in the near future. A posting of those details will be shared here at the website when a date is finalized. Please consider a memorial donation in Albert’s name to the Michigan Glass Project, the Karmanos Cancer Institute, Hospice of Michigan, or a charity of your choice. The family would also appreciate a favorite photo and/or a short story/memory you may have of Albert through the years. You can send them to Catherine Young at cvendog@gmail.com.