Donald YoungBird of Mandaree, was born to Leroy YoungBird and Marlene (Hale) YoungBird on December 3, 1960, in Watford City, ND. He attended Mandaree School where he earned his GED, then went on to receive his mechanic certification and shortly after he got his CDL and began his trucking journey. He spent most of his time driving trucks in Utah and did this for many years.

To simply put it, Donald was the life of the party, when he walked into a room you felt warmth radiate throughout, his smile made you want to smile back, and his laugh was infectious and will be dearly missed. He loved to dote on others, was an extremely giving person, and he always helped those that were in need. Donald was a family man, and he adored his family above all else, especially his granddaughter. Donald fondly known as “Uncle Duck” to some, enjoyed spending his free time out and about. He also enjoyed going to basketball games, to the movies, riding horses, spoiling every dog he met, hunting, fishing, going out on the pontoon, and of course going out to eat. He had a real passion for horses, and he loved them very much. Aside from his adventurous side, he was passionate about giving back, and positively impacted our community.

Though lost too soon, we are still grateful for the years we got to spend with him. May he find peace being back home, laying among the choke cherries, june berries, and plums, allowing his spirit to eat when he gets hungry. He will be greatly missed.

Donald passed away on April 26, 2023, in Bismarck, ND, after complications following surgery, surrounded by his family and friends.

Donald is survived by his children, Sandy Mae YoungBird, Darcy Lynn YoungBird, Clancy YoungBird Lonefight, and Marlene Mandi YoungBird; grandchildren, Pipar June YoungBird, Ayanna YoungBird, Harmony Rae YoungBird, Jordan YoungBird, Sapphire YoungBird, Angelic Wolf, Aaron Wolf, Anthony Wolf, Ariel Wolf, Kyle Hadeler, Josh Hadeler, Shani O’Hara, Orion YoungBird; brother, Hugh YoungBird.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents; sons, Lyman Leroy YoungBird, and Aaron YoungBird; daughter, Francine Wolf; uncles; aunt; cousins; wife; and stepdaughter.