Cornell animal scientist Robert "Bob" John Young died April 19 in Ithaca, N.Y. He was 87.

Young, who joined the Cornell faculty in 1960, served as chair of the Department of Poultry Science in 1965 and 12 years later became chair of the Department of Animal Science, a position he held until his retirement in 1983. He served as associate director of research in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences for one year and associate dean of agriculture for one year after his retirement.

Born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, in 1923, Young grew up on a dairy farm in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada, becoming a self-made horseman working the farm. After high school he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force, first as an engine mechanic and later as a radio navigator. Discharged in 1945 with the rank of flying officer, he went on to earn his B.S. (1950) at the University of British Columbia, earning a medal for being first in his class, and then his Ph.D. (1953) at Cornell. He held research positions at the University of Toronto, International Minerals and Chemical Corp. and Procter and Gamble Co. before returning to Cornell as a faculty member.

Young was an avid Cornell hockey and basketball fan and enjoyed woodworking, sailing and gardening in his spare time. He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Greta, two children and their families as well as other relatives.

A memorial service will be held at Kendal at Ithaca May 1 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to a charity of choice.