Dave Younkin, age 77, of Shelton, peacefully entered into rest on Monday, December 8, 2025, in his home with his cherished family by his side. Dave was born on January 4, 1948, son of the late Rose Zuraw Mowl and step-son of Robert Mowl, and was raised in Monessen. He lived most of his adult life in Ansonia and Shelton, CT. Dave was the epitome of a son, father, friend, mechanic and Hurricane.
Dave’s drum corps roots trace back to 1959 when he joined a small parade corps in Pittsburgh, PA called the Boys Brigade. After a few years, he went to a senior corps called the Esquires in West Newton, PA and then moved on to a major league corps called the Pittsburgh Rockets until 1967. In 1968, Dave moved to Connecticut to work as an aircraft mechanic at Sikorsky in Stratford, CT and naturally gravitated to play in the Connecticut Hurricanes Drum & Bugle Corps transcending four decades. He perfected his baritone horn parts and his drill to such a degree of excellence that led him to receive the “Hurricane of the Year” award in 1993. He culminated his playing career after helping to win the DCA Championship in 1981. After marching for 13 years, Dave became an instructor for many years and continued his unwavering support as one of the Hurricanes most enthusiastic fans.
Dave is the beloved father of Allison Shortell (Jim Cavallaro), and Carrie Younkin, and was a devoted life partner for 21 years to Ellen Stacy. He also considered his fellow Hurricane alumni as his brothers where he was lovingly known as “Pittsburgh”. When thinking of Dave, may we all “Walk Proud & Think Of Thunder!”
Friends may greet the family at the Riverview Funeral Home, 390 River Road, Shelton on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. His funeral service will be held at 12:30 PM at the parlor.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Connecticut Hurricanes Drum & Bugle Corps., PO Box 214 Seymour, CT 06483.