Young (née Brathwaite) Noreen Isabel
May 10, 1939 – April 18, 2025
Noreen Young, from Almonte, Ontario, passed away suddenly on April 18, 2025 at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. She was loved by many people, and we will always cherish her warmth, generosity, and creativity.
Noreen had an ever present sense of humour and an unforgettable flair. She started as a student of painting and sculpture, but her favourite art form was always puppetry. As an entrepreneur, television producer, puppet builder and performer, she touched the lives of countless people across Canada and abroad — both children and adults. She was a creative force and produced several television programs including “Hi Diddle Day” and “Under the Umbrella Tree.”
In 1994, Noreen was honoured with the Order of Canada for her outstanding contributions to both entertainment and children’s education. She mentored many artists, and she poured her energy into her beloved town of Almonte where she founded the international festival “Puppet’s Up!” and also served as its Artistic Director. She never stopped performing.
At home, Noreen was a loving mother to her two boys, Ian and Alec. She was a terrific host, an adventurous traveler, a musician, and a committed volunteer. In our family, we looked up to her.
Noreen is survived by her husband, Bruce Kingsley, her sons, Ian and Alec Young, her brother, Stephen Brathwaite, her stepdaughter, Jennifer Kingsley, and her sisters-in-law, Joanne Kingsley and Jean Brathwaite. She will also be missed by her stepchildren Giles and Bronwyn Young. Noreen was predeceased by Brig Young and her brother John Brathwaite.
Noreen’s creativity was an act of love. Let us remember Noreen by supporting our home communities with joy and laughter.
A public celebration of Noreen’s life will take place at the Almonte Old Town Hall at 2:30 pm on Saturday, May 24th, 2025.
Please join us, bring your stories, and help us keep Noreen’s memory and legacy strong with your joy and laughter.
