Kelsey's obituary
It is with deepest sadness that we announce Kelsey Marie Young, age 34, of Beloit WI passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 15, 2025. Born in Arlington Heights, IL on March 22, 1990 to Paul & Terry Burck. She was a devoted mother to her two amazing boys and a loving fiancée. She is survived by children, Parker Young (6) and Lukas Young (4), Mother, Terry (Riffner) Burck, sibling, John Burck, sister-in-law, Brittany (Kohlmeyer) Burck; fiancé Sean Johnson; all of her loving cousins, her nieces and nephews and many dear friends. She is predeceased by her father Paul Burck.
Kelsey was a woman whose heart overflowed with love. Family was her everything, and she poured her soul into the people she cared about. Her presence was a gift—joyful, kind, and endlessly thoughtful. Confident in who she was, she radiated warmth and had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved. No one was a stranger in her world; she had an uncanny ability to turn acquaintances into lifelong friends. And it wasn’t just her love of people - she deeply loved animals, taking in strays to make sure they would have the best life.
Her sense of humor was unmatched—she was truly hilarious, bringing light and laughter into every space she entered. But beyond her humor, Kelsey had a giving spirit that touched so many lives. She was always there with words of encouragement, a listening ear, or a helping hand. Most recently, she demonstrated the ultimate act of love by becoming a surrogate for Sindy and Christian, carrying their sweet baby girl, Minttu. This child will always have a part of Kelsey, just as everyone who knew her will carry her spirit forward in their hearts.
Among Kelsey’s many passions, she had a deep love for the Deaf community and American Sign Language (ASL). She embraced ASL not just as a language, but as a bridge to connect, uplift, and love others. She found joy in signing, learning, and sharing this beautiful form of communication, ensuring that everyone felt seen and included.
Kelsey was a source of life in countless ways, and even in her passing, that did not change. Through organ donation, she continued to share the gift of life, ensuring that many others will have a second chance because of her selfless generosity.
Kelsey’s faith in Jesus was unshakable, and we find comfort in knowing she is now experiencing the greatest reward of all. She lived with hope, love, and faith, and we are certain she is now in the arms of her Savior, celebrating her biggest "win" in eternity.
A visitation and celebration of Kelsey’s life will be held on Saturday, March 22nd at Northeast Christian Church (5651 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, IL 61114). Visitation will take place from 9:00 - 11:00 AM, followed by a service from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, with a lunch reception afterward. This date holds special significance, as it would have been Kelsey’s 35th birthday. She loved her birthday, and it is only fitting that we gather on this day to honor and celebrate her remarkable life.
Kelsey’s love, laughter, and kindness will never be forgotten. While we grieve the loss of such a beautiful soul, we also rejoice in the memories and lessons she left behind. She will forever be in our hearts.