Sister Colleen Young, SOS

Sister Colleen Young died at the Sisters of St Joseph Residence, Toronto, Ontario on Friday, March 14, 2025, in her 60th year of religious life with the Sisters of Service (SOS).

Born in Peterborough, Ontario, Sister Colleen was the sixth of nine children of Michael Patrick Young and Elizabeth Anne Murphy. She was predeceased by her parents and a brother, Michael and a sister, Clara. She is survived by siblings, Kay, Lorraine, Maureen, Anne, Eugene and Peter.

A teacher by profession, Colleen, taught in Ontario elementary schools for six years before entering the Sisters of Service on September 8, 1965, and professing final vows in 1974. Her first mission assignment was Onoway, Alberta, where she taught in the public elementary school for 20 years. She was active in the parish as organist and leader of song. In 1974, she graduated with a Bachelor of Education specializing in Early Childhood Education.

Returning to Ontario in 1988, Sister Colleen taught at Holy Rosary School in Wyoming, Ontario, until retirement in 1994. The hallmark of her ministry was love of teaching, integrating her musical talents and encouraging students to achieve their maximum potential. She pursued studies in liturgical music and religious education, earning a Certificate in Pastoral Liturgy at St. Paul’s University, Ottawa.

Sister Colleen was a member of the Catholic Women’s League and assisted in pastoral activities, serving as Eucharistic Minister and leader of special liturgies in local parishes.

Mass of Christian Burial: Monday, March 24, 2025 at 10:30 a.m.