Gary K. Young

CUBA — Gary K. Young passed away peacefully Sunday (May 31, 2026) at Olean General Hospital, with his wife by his side.

He was born in Buffalo to the late Frank Young and Florence Phalen.

After high school Gary proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard and later joined the Olean Police Department where he retired as a captain. He was also a member of the first Olean Police Department’s SWAT team.

While the Olean Center Mall was being built, Gary was head of security and later promoted to mall manager. In 1985 he was transferred to the McKinley Mall in Hamburg to serve as mall manager during their grand opening.

He owned several Subway franchises and also started an amusement business with just one kiddie train ride known as Young Train Company. He expanded with several rides and changed the name to American Amusement Rental. After retiring, he drove for Premo Limousine which he claimed was his all-time favorite job.

His greatest joy in life was living at Cuba Lake. Gary was instrumental in facilitating the natural gas extension on the north and south shores. He loved boating, the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres and was a St. Bonaventure basketball fan.

Gary is survived by his wife of 45 years, Karen Stavish; his stepchildren, Eric Witherell of Florida, Leah (Matt) Scanlon of Maryland and also Jason Young, Kellie George, Suzanne Swatt and Eileen Stearns; one sister, Judie (Donnie) Green of Alabama; nine grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a son, Jamie Young.

Per Gary’s request there will be no visitations. A family gathering for a celebration of life will be at a later date.

If desired, donations may be made to the Cuba Lake Cottage Owners Association to be used for the lake fireworks display which he always loved, C/O CLCOA, P.O. Box 103, Cuba, NY 14727.

Arrangements are with the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean.