FORMER COMMISSIONER OF MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS PASSES AWAY

The Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) notes the passing of former commissioner Jack Young, who died Tuesday at the age of 87.

Young served as commissioner of the DOC from 1979-1982, before becoming director of Ramsey County Community Corrections. At the end of his term as DOC commissioner, then-Governor Al Quie said the following: "Jack Young has been the right person at the right time to serve as commissioner of corrections for the State of Minnesota. The operation of our corrections system during his four years stand as proof of that. Jack has the right combination of firmness and compassion needed for the commissioner position along with the greatest experience and knowledge that anyone could have for that job."

Tom Roy, the DOC's current commissioner, called Young a great leader and an inspiration to many past and current department employees.

"Jack Young will be missed and remembered," Roy said. "On behalf of the Minnesota Department of Corrections, I thank him for his vision, dedication and service, and recognize the legacy he leaves behind."

In recognition of Young's contributions to the state, the former warden's house at the Minnesota Correctional Facility (MCF)-Stillwater was dedicated to him and his wife, Adelle, in 2007. The house is now known as the Jack & Adelle Young Conference Center. The Youngs were the last family to live in the home when Young was warden of the MCF-Stillwater from 1968-1971.

Additionally, the Minnesota Association of Community Corrections Act Counties named a professional achievement award in his honor. The award was created in 1989 to recognize individuals who have furthered the mission of community corrections, having made outstanding contributions to the development and improvement of community corrections in Minnesota. Young was the first winner and so embodied these ideals that the award was renamed the Jack Young Award.

Link to obituary:

http://www.bradshawfuneral.com/mobile/obit.php?id=1418753&name=Jack-G-Young&loca=Bayport-MN