ROBERT F. YOUNG, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR EMERITUS OF MUSIC, DIES

Robert F. Young, associate professor emeritus of music, died Oct. 14, 2001, at his home in Norfolk.

In 1956, Young and his family moved to Norfolk to accept a temporary appointment to teach voice and opera at the Norfolk Division. He remained at Old Dominion for 35 years, serving as chair of the music department from 1971-76, retiring in 1991.

During his career at the university, Young became well-known as a performer in hundreds of concerts and musicals. He was perhaps best known for his many roles in Gilbert and Sullivan productions presented by the Norfolk Savoyards, as a principal soloist for annual performances of Handel's "Messiah," and for his church choir work as both a director and soloist at Temple Baptist Church and most recently with 2nd Presbyterian Church of Norfolk.

Young was a native of Allentown, Pa., and served in Europe during World War II with the 413th Infantry Regiment of the 104th Division of the U.S. Army. After the war, he returned to complete his undergraduate and graduate degrees in voice from Syracuse University, and began his teaching career as a professor of voice and opera at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn.

Survivors include his wife, Vivian G. Young; two sons, Scott Young of Virginia Beach and Tom Young of Atlanta; and three grandchildren.

A memorial service was conducted Oct. 18. Memorial contributions may be made to the Robert F. Young Memorial Music Fund in care of 2nd Presbyterian Church, 7305 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk, Va. 23505.

Cards may be sent to the family at 5900 Powhatan Ave., Norfolk, Va. 23508.