Omar Ira Young

Omar Ira Young died unexpectedly on January 26, 2026, at his home in Phoenix, Arizona. He was 40 years old. His parents had just returned with him from a joyful three-week birthday trip through Singapore and Bali.

Born in San Francisco, Omar grew up in Park City, Utah, where he developed a lifelong love of skiing, the outdoors, and adventure. From an early age, he was known for his curiosity, intelligence, and quiet determination.

At age 11, Omar was diagnosed with a brain tumor and endured three relapses over the next five years. Through surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and two autologous bone marrow transplants, he never asked “why me.” Instead, he focused on living as fully and normally as possible, showing remarkable courage and resilience throughout his life.

Despite the challenges of extensive medical treatment, Omar graduated on schedule and with honors from Rowland Hall High School. He went on to earn a degree in Computer Science with a minor in Physics from Guilford College in North Carolina in 2009.

Omar built a successful career as a software engineer, working for Duke University, Boeing, and later serving as Lead Software Engineer at Arizona State University. After the COVID pandemic, he chose to follow a different calling, completing yoga teacher training, advanced yoga studies, and becoming a Reiki Master.

Giving back was always important to Omar. As a young cancer survivor, he volunteered as an American Cancer Society Relay for Life Ambassador. In recent years, he devoted his time to Phoenix Children’s Hospital Camp Rainbow, supporting children facing serious illness. Just days before his passing, he renewed his volunteer credentials and completed the required physical exam.

Omar shared his mother’s passion for travel, and together they explored the world, including Africa, Asia, and South America. He shared his father’s love of laundry—an enthusiasm that became a family joke. He also loved the sky. An avid and fearless flyer, Omar logged over 200 solo skydives, pursued flying lessons, and enjoyed both motorized and non-motorized paragliding.

Above all, Omar will be remembered as a kind, caring, compassionate, and gentle soul—deeply respectful of the environment and endlessly thoughtful toward others.

He is survived by his parents, Bless and Gregory Young; his beloved cats, Bella and Luna; his best friend, Lizzie; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brother, Grant.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. Omar was cremated, and his ashes will be scattered in places he loved: Sedona, Maui, and Cabo.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Omar’s memory to the American Cancer Society, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, or Phoenix Children’s Hospital Camp Rainbow.