Vivian Marie Youngberg, age 100, passed away peacefully at her home in Wheaton, Illinois entering the presence of her Savior on January 9, 2026. Vivian leaves a legacy of faith, joyful service, a deep love of family and God's word. Vivian was born on December 31, 1925 to Noah and Ellen (Olson) Melgren in Osage City, Kansas. Vivian was raised on a family farm and grew up under the spiritual guidance of her Swedish grandfather, a faithful pastor, whose church stood just across the street from their farmhouse. The rhythms of farm life, simple joys, hard work and daily reliance on God, shaped her character and instilled in her a profound appreciation for the Lord's provisions.

As a young woman, Vivian taught in a one room school house, obtaining an emergency teaching certificate during the WWII teacher shortage. She continued her education at North Park College in Chicago, graduating with a teaching degree. While working at a Chicago area church, Vivian met her future husband, Harold, who was pastoring at the Evangelical  Free Church in Libertyville, Illinois. Harold and Vivian were married October 15, 1955 at the Stotler Covenant Church in Osage City, Kansas. Their church work soon brought them to California where they led youth studies. Early in 1962, they became missionaries in Panama, teaching at the Methodist Pan American School. In 1967, they returned to  Illinois, eventually settling in Wheaton for over 50 years, where Vivian embraced being a stay at home mom to their three children. Her joyful creativity, and deep devotion was evident in the home she kept. She created a warm, loving home and welcoming space for fellowship. After her children were grown, she worked for many years as the administrative executive to the dean of the Billy Graham Center at Wheaton College. This season allowed her to serve in a broader sphere of Christian ministry. Vivian found great delight in music, whether lifting her voice and praise in the church choir or gracefully playing the piano. In the kitchen, her talents shined through cooking and baking,  always bringing homemade cookies as she cheered at the countless games and events for her grandchildren. In her later years, she enjoyed cheering on the Chicago Bulls too! Vivian enjoyed sewing, crafting beautiful items and tending to her perennial and vegetable gardens. She also enjoyed traveling to new places throughout the United States and spend her 50th wedding anniversary exploring parts of Europe. Above all, her days were anchored in faith, faithfully attending church, immersing herself in Bible study and meaningful moments in prayer drawing ever closer to the Lord, who inspired every part of her vibrant life. Vivian's family and friends will remember her as a faithful woman of God, loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, devoted wife, wise servant, and spiritual role model.

Even in her later years, her testimony remained vibrant: a life surrender to Jesus, marked by kindness, service and a steadfast hope. We thank God for blessing us with our mother and grandmother. We stand on the shoulders of this remarkable woman. What a legacy she leaves behind! Vivian's light continues to shine through the lives she touched, and her family finds comfort, knowing she is singing in the arms of her Savior!  "Well, done, good and faithful servant enter into the joy of your Lord." Matthew 25:21.

Vivian was proceeded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, Harold Youngberg, her parents, Noah and Ellen Melgren, and her two sisters, Martha Melgren and Gladys Allison. She is survived by her three children and their spouses: Mark (Janice)Youngberg, Cathy (Al) Patenuade, Tim and (Bobbi)Youngberg. Grandchildren; Lexi (Daniel) Kuppler, Zachary and Jacob Youngberg, Jessica Patenuade, Summer and Skyler Youngberg; and great-grandchild Kaia Kuppler.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28th, 2026 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at Cornerstone Faith Community Church, 118 First Street in Bloomingdale, IL 60108. A celebration of life service will be held immediately thereafter at 11:00 am followed by a luncheon for family and friends.

Memorial gifts may be directed to Cornerstone Community Church.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at Hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home.