Kay Sue Young

Kay Sue (Conkwright) Young, 69, of Walton, KS passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2024 at Wesley Medical Center with family by her side.

She was born in Manhattan, Kansas, on January 8, 1955 as the only child of James and Frances “Faye” (Scott) Conkwright; who were lifelong residents of Manhattan, KS. 

Kay graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Arts in 1977. She worked as a medical illustrator for the Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine and then later as a graphic designer for the K-State Student Union. 

On June 23, 1979, Kay was united in marriage to Bruce Young. The couple celebrated their 44^th wedding anniversary this past year.

After moving from Minneapolis, KS to Walton, KS with her husband and two daughters, she continued freelance graphic design projects and also worked for USD 460 as both a bus driver and in her later years as the secretary for the transportation office.

Kay loved spending time with her family, especially her five grandchildren who lit up her world. Her loving and kind heart radiated to all those who spent time with her. She enjoyed art, being creative and all things crafting, especially with her grandkids. She and Bruce loved antiquing and they spent countless hours going to auctions and estate sales to find elusive treasures. Kay took joy from the numerous flower beds and gardens around the farmhouse and watching the birds come and go from the bird feeders.

She had a great passion for animals, and a true love for horses that started at a young age.  She and Bruce were members of The Central Kansas Harness Club for many years while living in Minneapolis, KS, and had several adventures driving the horse drawn carriage and sleigh with their daughters. Over the years she has been a strong supporter of 4-H and was a past volunteer for the Emma Creek Classic 5k race in Hesston, KS.

Kay is survived by her loving husband, Bruce Young; and two daughters, Amber (Bret) Toews of Walton, KS, Danielle (Ryan) Still of Ellis, KS; and 5 grandchildren: Declan Toews, London Toews, Clara Still, Lily Still, and Trevor Still. She was preceded in death by her parents. 

The family deeply appreciates your support and prayers during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to be made to any charity of your choosing.

A memorial and celebration of Kay's life will be held on March 2, 2024 at 10:00am at Petersen Family Funeral Home at 215 N Main St, Newton, KS 67114. Directly following the memorial, a gathering with a light lunch is planned for any and all family and friends who wish to join. This will be held at Salem United Methodist Church at 115 Old Main St, Newton, KS 67114.

If for any reason you are unable to travel to the memorial service, it would be Kay’s wish that you spend that time to make a positive impact on someone else’s life. For example, spend time playing a game with your grandchild, reconnect with someone from your past, help someone with a project; make an effort to resolve old conflicts or lend a stranger a helping hand. Offering your time and energy in this way will not only honor Kay’s memory and spirit, but benefit us all by touching the hearts and lives of others as she has touched ours.