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Home > Austin Music Source > Archives > 2008 > August > 21 > Entry
Danny Young 1941- 2008
Someone called Danny Young “the Mayor of South Austin” and it stuck like an arrow because Young’s warm, gregarious personality and passion for Texas music lit up the whole 78704 Zip Code. The big-hearted neighborhood activist was the friendliest guy you could ever meet… and he met everyone who ever walked into his Texicalli Grille.
Danny Roy Young, who also played rub board with Cornell Hurd, Ponty Bone and the Texana Dames, died of a heart attack Wednesday. He was 67. He had been at his parttime job as a driver for Enterprise Rent-a-Car when he was found incapacitated in a car in the parking lot Wednesday afternoon. Co-workers called for EMS and he was rushed to South Austin Hospital, where he went into cardiac arrest, said sister Dawne Young. The time of death was 4:42 p.m.
“What a guy!” Susan Antone wrote in an email. “He was a class act always and a great friend. He’ll be sorely missed.”
A native of Kingsville, where his parents ran a root beer stand turned pizza parlor, Young and his wife Lu moved to Austin in 1975 and opened the first location of Texicalli Grille (the signature Texicalli sandwich was named after Gene Autry’s “Mexicalli Rose”) on South Lamar Boulevard. He became the unofficial mayor of South Austin in the mid-1980s, when the city planned to widen South Lamar and put in a continuous median, to make it more of a thoroughfare. Fearing an expansion would change the soul of the neighborhood, Young organized other affected business owners, who gathered petitions, took their concerns to City Hall, and eventually got the expansion project dropped.
“It used to be, ‘All them Bubbas live over there with toilets in their front yards.’ And there’s still some of that,” Young said of South Austin in a 2002 American-Statesman profile. “But it’s the most beautiful, supportive community. It doesn’t matter if you have long or short hair, Skoal in your back pocket or a joint in your shirt pocket; here people really care about people.”
Nobody spread the love like Danny Young, who tooled around town in Big Lu-Lu, a 1954 Chevy station wagon, waving at friends and playing a mix of music ranging from conjunto to blues to zydeco to western swing.
Young retired in 2006 at age 65 and sold the Texicalli, which brought funky charm to an old Taco Bell on East Oltorf Street in 1989. The restaurant, known for its Texan twist on the Philly cheesesteak, closed in July 2007 because of rising rents.
“He missed the cameraderie of the Texicalli, but he liked being retired, not having that daily responsibility of running a restaurant” said music journalist John Morthland, who often took roadtrips with Young to Arlington and Houston to watch major league baseball games. “Sometimes we’d get back at 3 a.m. after a game and Danny would have to be at work at 6 a.m.”
He took the job at Enterprise, assistant manager Daryl Lentz said, because “he was a customer first, who liked everybody here, and he said he had too much free time. He was so full of life, he didn’t want to sit at home.”
A storyteller and rabble rouser, Young loved to hold court at a big, round table at the poster-covered Texicalli, a fat-chewing, sociopolitical haven where musicians, artists and neighborhood eccentrics used to gather to complain about government and “progress.”
“In South Austin, we do things the way we want, and we hope you like it,” Young told former Statesman columnist Don McLeese in 1996. “But if you don’t, we’ll do it anyway.”
On Wednesday, a mighty whiff of the Old Austin spirit disappeared. There will never be another Danny Young; you can be sure of that. On stage he kept the rhythm on a metal washboard he played wearing leather gloves with Mercury dimes glued to the fingertips. But it was the pulse of Danny Young’s personality, his love of life and music and conversation, that helped give the ‘04 its beat.
Young is survived by his mother Margo, wife Lu, son Scott and daughter Holli, plus three granddaughters, three sisters and a brother. Funeral services will be on Tuesday, 3PM at the First United Methodist Church at 12th & Lavaca. A reception will follow at Antone’s.
- From the archives: The Young spirit of Old Austin
- Sign the guest book.
- Photos
Comments
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By D'nese Fly
August 21, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
As the youngest of Danny’s 3 “kid-sisters”, I would like to thank you all for your kind words about our brother. We were raised by kind and giving parents that thought us to enjoy life and always think of others. Our Mom would often say, “Just keep reaching out”. Danny obviously carried out this deed to many. And you are correct…he will be greatly missed by all. God Bless, D’nese Fly/Roswell NM
By John B. Wiley
August 21, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
The joy, the joy. Every time Danny saw Peggy Murphy, he would drop whatever he was doing, and come to hug her. The joy on his face, playing that washboard. The walking, talking encyclopedia of music, especially Texas music.When Peggy & I talked about the Texas Playboys, he wanted to know about each member of the band. He worshipped Smokey Daakus. What a great band there is tonight in Austin Musician Heaven. Stevie Ray and Champ Hood on guitars, T. D. Bell and Erbie Bowser still in the blues, and Danny Roy Young and Mambo John Treanor on dueling washboards. Rave on, rave on. To all of you, we miss you so. Rejoice! Keep the campfire burning, we’ll be there soon. Tell Molly Ivins we send our best. Joy, that was Danny Roy, joy!!!
By Wayne Zinkand
August 21, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Danny always greeted me with a “Hey, Big Fella!”, although I am not very big. It was just Danny’s way - he instantly made you feel good and you knew he really was happy to see you. A very wise man with a heart the size of his beloved South Austin. As others have already stated, we’ll not see his kind again; Danny Roy Young is a one of a kind human being. I am truly a better person for having known him. The best we all can do in tribute is to try to make Danny’s wonderful friendliness part of our daily lives and do him proud. My sincere condolences go out to his lovely wife Lu and all his family and the Cornell Hurd Band.
By Jerrilyn Raine
August 21, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this
I’m 34 and I have known this man since I was 11 years old. My friends Shaela Starr and I would go eat at the restaurant when it was still off of South Lamar. I even had the priviledge of working for him. Thru the years Danny and Texicalli were always there. Id walk in for a late lunch (for my fav, Queso fries!) and he always sat for a good while and we had some of the greatest conversations. He had a nack for makin me feel special as well as so many others. He was like a wise medicine man. Him and his food being the medicine. He was a great person and his restaurant was just cool! A major part of South Austin is gone! It breaks my heart! But nothing last forever! Im gonna miss u man! Peace and blessings to your family!
By Tank
August 21, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
Austin just got a bit less weird, and a lot less joyous. “Good night, Sweet Prince….”
By Marian Halperin
August 21, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
What a great guy! I just knew him because I was a customer at Texicalli and he always made me feel welcome. “Just be nice!” I love it!! RIP Danny.
By todd v wolfson
August 21, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
my photo of naomi in the bluebonnets by the register. danny and i love that photo of naomi. we bonded over many things besides that photo. i love you, danny
By Ken-e-ray
August 21, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
If Austin had a flag, it would be at half mast to honor a good citizen. There is no doubt that the “Keep Austin Weird” and the “78704” mottos would not have come into existence, if Danny had not lived in Austin! Texas has lost a good soul. Look out, Jesus is gonna’ be eatin’ good tonight! What a great family, I feel your loss.
By The Duck
August 21, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
Danny said to me, “We may be apart for a while and we may not see each other for many years, but when we meet again we’ll still be the best of friends and it will be like we were never apart.”
His words are more prophetic today than in my youth. My heart aches now but my hope and faith are with the Eternal. This I know, follow the Lord and there you’ll find Danny Roy riding with the Sons of Thunder and looking for the treasure of his beloved family and friends.
Keep it clean.
Because he loved me as the Lord instructed, he lifted me up, dusted me off and set me on my feet and smiled when he did it again. You could not have a truer friend than Danny Roy. He came so we might follow.
By Ann-Marie M Irwin
August 21, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
How rare it is to have a person in your life who doesn’t talk about being good but just is.
About a month ago I told Danny that it was his exuberant, gracious greetings at the Texacali that helped make Austin home to me. What a wonder it was to me that he became a dear friend. Danny taught me to let my Yankee guard down and smile more. He taught me the wonder of sweet potato fries with bbq sauce.
Five years I’ve lived in Austin now, with my husband Charlie. Danny became a neighbor, a confidant, a foodie-friend. My husband has shared the stage with him. I learned to swing dance and would give Danny a kiss when I waltzed by. He told me how it was always sweeter to play when someone he cared about was in the audience.
Danny I will miss hearing you honk as you drive by my house. The world is a quieter place. You left a legacy of goodness for which I will always be grateful. I promise to keep your light in my heart always.
By Paige Webb
August 21, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
My heart has just broken upon hearing this news. Danny was such an inspiration and loyal friend to me, and ex-Kingsvillain. Lu and family - please know that his spirit lives on and keeps the “soul family” close to you, too.
By Ralph Wranker
August 21, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
So many wonderful things said about Danny, and for good reason, it’s all true. Danny had a way of drawing the best out of people, and along with that, a caring of those he knew. Danny had two homes, south Austin and Kingsville. He was home in either location and could talk to the locals like he was right where he was supposed to be, at home. Danny was one of those rare individuals. He could cross generations and make everyone feel comfortable.
Now Danny is gone. I hope his memory, good will, and spirit lives on in each one of us. It’s really what he would like to see from us.
By Doug Hancock
August 21, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this
Danny picked me up when I fell. He dusted me off, set me on my feet, then said, “Aw Duck”, and did it again all with a smile.
He once told me, “We may be apart for a while and may not see each other for a long time, but when we do we will still be best of friends and it will be as if we were never apart.” These words are more prophetic today than when first spoken long ago. My heart is aching now, but my faith and hope lie with the Eternal. I know this…if you follow the Lord, there you’ll find Danny Roy riding with the Sons of Thunder and waiting patiently on his beloved family and friends.
By Bob Parsons
August 21, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this
When I was a Methodist pastor in Kingsville back in the ‘70es Danny and Lu were members of my congregation. The church was terrible conflicted and some of the members were pretty mean. When things got really tough, I would go down to Young’s Pizza and Danny would get me back to reality and the joy of knowing a really wonderful guy. Years later I was the pastor in Westlake and Danny was running the Texicalli. He hired my daughter and helped her in the same loving way he had me and I suspect everyone who ever came to him for support, advice, and a happy time. My sympathies to Lu and Margo and the kids…a big chunk of Austin.
By Wendy O
August 21, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
As a memeber of the 04 Hood Danny’s Restaurant, Thurs. @ Jovita’s and that infectious smile were always on my must do list when I had out of town guests…they got a true flavor of Austin…he will be greatly missed & fondly remembered always…
By Dr. Tub E. Gooberman
August 21, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
I can’t believe the news. It is apparent to me, that I have taken too much for granted. I guess I just took it for granted that Danny would be here.
Bless you Lu, even tho we’ve never met. Bless you Danny’s Grandkids and kids. Your husband and father had a tremendous, perhaps immeasurable , positive life changing effect on everyone he met. We were not close friends, but I was always proud that Danny always remembered my name. Inexplicably, he gave me hope every time I ran into him.
I pray your grief will be consoled in this time of profound loss. God bless you and keep you.
By Holly and George Kuhn
August 21, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
George had known Danny for years. They met back in ‘81 when the Texicalli was on Lamar. It was a natural for George to take me to meet Danny on our first date, at the “new” location on Oltorf. Danny gave me the biggest hug and kiss in greeting — and Billy spilled a pitcher of ice water down my back!! We were regulars after that :-) Three and a half years later, Danny opened the doors for us on Sunday, July 4th, 2004, for our wedding reception. Danny was quite a guy to suggest it! He really cared about making a difference, in many, many ways. We really missed our Texicalli fix, when Danny shut down, but not as much we missed Danny. It’s hard to believe that it’s final now. We love you, Danny. You’re an original
By Billy Garza
August 21, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this
In the early eighties I was fortunate enough to work at Young’s Pizza in Kingsville listening to Scott and his brother talk about Danny, Easter Everywhere and Austin. Soon enough I loaded up the pickup and headed north. Danny treated me like a long lost friend when I went for a Texicalli. Over the years I would run into him, catch up in conversation and look forward to running into him again. An amazing man, an amazing life…true inspiration. - BG
By Bo Platt
August 21, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Whoever came up with the idea of “six degrees of separation” never met Danny Young. And that in itself is newsworthy because it seemed that Danny knew everyone. Danny generally reduced this down to one degree, and of course just about everyone claimed Danny Roy Young as a personal friend. He brought sunlight into a room with his smile and his laugh – and of course with his stories. Within 30 seconds of meeting someone they were old friends with a dozen friends in common. Danny was always so thoughtful of everyone – and like his motto “just be nice” pretty much personified him. He never ran for “Mayor of South Austin” – he was elected by acclaim, and there have never been any challengers. And sadly, there will never be another Mayor of South Austin.
We miss you Danny, but you’ll always live on inside us.
By Terry
August 21, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this
I am so sad and shocked at this news. Danny was a good man who did a lot for people the people that I love. He will be missed.
By George Cruze
August 21, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
I first met Danny when I was Tour Managing for Laika & The Cosmonauts, the Surf band from Finland who kicked off their 1996 US tour in the parking lot at the Texicalli. But it wasn’t long before I found out that he was a good friend of literally every single person I knew in Austin. I live in Providence and don’t have a lot of contact with Austin these days; I found out about Danny’s passing this evening on Dan Ferguson’s radio show on the University of Rhode Island radio station and I take some small comfort in knowing that there was a heartfelt tribute to him on the air all the way up here. Danny was and will always be a big part of Austin but he was known and loved worldwide.
By Tracy Schultz
August 21, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this
I’ve known Danny a little more than half my life. The other half will be far emptier now. I love you Danny. - Tracer
By Tracy
August 21, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
I’ve known Danny for a little more than half my life. The other half will be a bit emptier now. But I will see you again, and I’ll bring the migas and hash browns. “Bites” and love. - Tracer
By Sissy Camacho
August 21, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Danny will be remembered by many, his smile and warm welcome will not be forgotten. He was a friend to all, even those he did not know well. I feel the “Mayor of South of Austin” will be looking down on the rest of us left in South Austin for years to come. Wit and Wisdom will be remembered. Condolences to the family.
By Billy's Wife (Aimee)
August 21, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
I think Loiuse really hit the nail on the head for me. I remember telling Billy this morning, that Danny was such a spark of life, a real fire cracker, that it seems impossible for that spark to be gone. I think a person like that who can become a part of your own soul and when they are gone, it feels like a little part of you is missing.
He was warm and kind and full of sunshine. His vibrant energy hit you as soon as you walked through his doors. It was infectious and you couldn’t help but feel like you were truly something special by the time you were leaving.
Billy introduced me to Danny after we started dating (probably for his approval)in 2001. I know Billy felt very much like he was father figure. He had a way of making you feel like you were one of his own. And I guess Danny must have approved because Billy and I got married.
He and his family have always been so loving and warm to us both through all of our hard times. And our son Miles will never forget that there was always a nifty dollar to be found in one of Danny’s pockets. Danny always spoiled the little folk!
Please give our Max a great big hug for us. We will truly miss you Danny.
By phil julian
August 21, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Danny was the man. A role model and great friend. Thanks for everything, the life lessons, and great memories.
By Kris Gulleen
August 21, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
What more can I say that hasn’t already been said? The first time I met Danny, he acted like he had known me all my life. And in a way, I guess he did. Over the years, we dicussed our mutual interests during lunch at the Texicalli —- old cars and Texas music. And he was always genuinely interested in my hobby of musician photography. He was a true Great Person — a shining star in the world. Everyone was his friend and he was a friend to everyone. I’m glad to have known him. He will be greatly missed by all.
By Dianne Scott
August 21, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
I’ll never hear anyone say “Hi Shuge!” quite the same way, and I’ll miss that. I was honored by his friendship, and always enjoyed his zest for life, his wit, intelligence, and sincerity. My sincere condolences go to Lu, his extended family and his vast band of musical compadres. With sympathy, Dianne Scott The Continental Club, Austin
By Tim Jones
August 21, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
What a terrible shame to lose another person who makes Austin what is. A genuine treasure. The Texicalli had his character all over it. Covered with posters of Austin musical history (even in the bathrooms) on the walls and ceilings. The South by South Austin Texicalli parking lot party with Cornell, Danny and many friends was always the highlight of every SXSW for me. Danny would be out there in his element. I will miss him and the knowledge that he is still living in Austin. Though his spirit will always be here.
By Sheri
August 21, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
I met this very nice man thro Pam Powell, he was loved.
By Laurie
August 21, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Danny once gave me his shirt from a youth retreat. It said “Born to Raze Hell”. He said I deserved it. If there was ever anyone who touched enough lives to keep Hell from filling up, it was Danny Young. He was my friend and my mentor. I am absolutely the Christian, teacher, and caterer that I am because of Danny.
I thought for a long time that everyone had a “Danny” in their life. A larger than life character that touched and motivated everyone. As everyone knows, I was very, very wrong. The world has a big empty whole now.
I love you, Danny. Keep the clouds in heaven jumping.
By george culp
August 21, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
We were to meet him, since our son is in love with his daughter, but he got away from us before that happened. How very sad for us, for he was such a special man to so many. I wish we could have known him. Through these postings, we will. Thank you all.
By Carol Chocklett
August 21, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Oh Danny oh boy oh my. Like all the people who’ve written, Danny brought me (and Gary) into his heart and his family. I met his mom, wife, kids all at Texicalli, and it became our home away from home all the way from Oak Hill :) We ate there twice a week at lunch and whenever we could any other time, not just because of the food, but the “family” of friends who all talked to each other because it was our place. If you were there, you were an immediate friend of everyone there.
I loved the big table with the ladies with the tiaras and the big musician group - Cornell Hurd and band and anybody else they knew. Our favorite place the booth in the round. The milkshakes, onion rings, mushrooms, Dublin Dr. Pepper, mmm, everything! Danny, LaDonna, Daniel, Billy, Bones and his wife and her sister, Nico and the stuff all around-the memories are delicious, just like the food was.
I loved watching Danny especially when Haley was there - what a proud Papa! He loved his family above all, and he loved everybody, even those he hadn’t met yet. Besides the “..Just be Nice” his other motto was: Love ‘em all, let God sort “em out. It always made me smile.
We took everyone who came to town to Texicalli. My visiting friends with guitars came with us and played for Danny, just because. My parents, kids, grandkids (milkshakes please), friends, all fell in love with him and the haven his place was to us. We even celebrated our birthdays and anniversaries there!
The staff there became our family too. Heck, they even got Christmas money in cards, Walnut or pecan fudge, cookies and anything else I could think of to bring in, but I always saved aside some for Danny and for Lu. I never really felt at home here til I met Danny; imagine that.
The world was a better place because of Danny’s huge spirit and will remain so because heaven just became a better place too. Much love to Lu and his family and all who called Danny friend.
By Alta Campbell
August 21, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
I met Danny Roy at Jovita’s some years ago, and he became a friend. When I told him last year that I was moving back to Maryland after 22 years in Austin, to be closer to my family, he said, “Well, Sugar, we will hate to lose you, but I understand. Family is the most important thing. I am crazy about my family.” He helped me to see that leaving the coolest town in the country to live closer to my family really did make sense. “People,” he told me, “are what really matter in life.” He was right, and his life reflected his values. What a special man Danny was. He helped me to see the best in myself. My deepest condolences to his family.
By Jonathan Roe
August 21, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
I enjoyed life a little more because of him and am a better person because of him. He taught me a lot; more than I realized until now. I’ll miss him.
By Bucks Burnett
August 21, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
Didn’t know him well but he treated me like a good friend anytime I saw him.
By Celia and Joe Munoz, Jr.
August 21, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Our son who is a police officer in Austin sent this to us (Joe F. Munoz). We live in Midland now but we are originally from Kingsville. In fact, I went to school with his brother and my husband knew Danny well. We lived in Austin from 88 to 01 and we always used to go to the Texacalli. We were ALWAYS treated like family. We used to enjoy it even more because of all the memorabilia he had posted all over, it was sort of like a hang out for the KINGSVILLEITES! We will miss Danny and we offer our condolences to the family. Celia and Joe Munoz, Jr.
By Henry Allen
August 21, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
I’ve always been just a face in the crowd, but Danny made me feel special from the day I met him. He made everyone he met feel that way. I don’t know how he was able to achieve that magic, but I know those he is among now are happier now that he has arrived. God bless you Danny.
By Ernie Durawa
August 21, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
So sorry to hear the bad news about Danny.About a month or so ago,Danny,myself and Dr.Gary Hartman spent the day in San Marcos..first we started at Hurberts for a mexican lunch with Danise and lucky and then we went on the Texas State University campus checking out the Texas Music History museum. It was a fun day and a day I’ll keep in my heart forever.
God Bless Danny Young!
By Kris Gulleen
August 21, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
When I first met Danny at the Texicalli, he acted like he had known me forever. Over the years, we visited a lot during lunch, and we discussed our mutual interests —- cars and Texas music. He was a true friend to everyone. There will never be another one like him! My deepest sympathies to Lu and the rest of the family. We will all greatly miss him and we are all better people by knowing him.
By Sylvia
August 21, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Dearest Lu , Margo, and Scott and Holli ,
Thank You all, for sharing the Gift of Danny Roy Young, with all of Us, for so many decades .
A more Joy-FULL Man, I don’t believe, has walked the Earth, in South Austin.
Ah Danny, thanks so much , for Being , Friend.
Thanks again, for dances over the decades, for the last couple New Years’ gigs w/ Mr. Bone, the years of parking lot parties, killer RUBYQ’s, malts and company- the many many moments of sheer hilarity discussing the latest shenanigans downtown !
Thanks for always making the time, to visit and those great hugs ~ I’ll sure miss ‘em.
Thanks for reminding me, always, to JUST BE NICE :)-
Vayos Con Dios, Senor ~
Love, Always, Sylvia
By Teresa
August 21, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
I ordered the DRY every time I went to Texacalli Grille….named after a great one of kind. Our family would invade the back tables on Friday nights from time to time…Danny, Lu, Scott, and Holly would sit and visit…after about 30 years, extended family just does that. A stranger never walked in, even if it was their first visit, Danny greeted them as if he knew them forever. Many feel very blessed to be able to say we were a friend of Danny Young’s. Boy, I bet Danny is watching all this and wanting to say ‘Enough about me, now tell me how are you and the family doin’?’ We will forever miss him, his smile, and his wisdom.
By Daryl Slusher
August 21, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
What an incredible human being. Thanks to Corcoran for capturing Danny and his importance to Austin. It doesn’t seem fair that Danny who loved living so much had to go so soon. It doesn’t seem fair to the rest of us either. For my part, I’ll just add a classic Danny quote from when I was covering the City Council as a journalist in the late 1980s and he was fighting the expansion of South Lamar. “We’re not asking you to do anything for us,” he told the Council, “We’re just asking you not to do anything to us.”
By Gordo -- pizza burger, no onions, with fries, on a plate, with a fork
August 22, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
If there was ever a person who deserved a larger than life statue in 78704, Danny’s your guy 100%! I could type pages about and for him … and I haven’t even had the pleasure of seeing him in a few years. That’s how big of an influence he could have on a person. He always made me want to be a better person; someone more forgiving, understanding and yet not afraid to have a position on any particular topic. I can only imagine that he’s now been called upon to do bigger and better things.
By Sumner Erickson
August 22, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
I hope all are well!
Heaven just got cooler… and it is lonelier here on Earth.
Danny will be missed! I was so blessed to know his smile and loving warm embrace. And that yummy yummy food he served at Texicalli!
And also the cool South Austin hero’s mural he had on the wall east of his restaurant.
Blessings to all his family and friends.
Danny: RIP!
PeaceLoveJoy!
By Gloria Badillo Hill
August 22, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this
I have so many memories of Danny—from Kingsville with his wonderful family and later in Austin with families of our own. He always had a smile for everyone, and he was never too busy to help a friend…and since everyone was his friend, he must have slept very little.
God bless you, Danny Roy…we will miss you very much.
By Chris Gage
August 22, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this
My heart is heavy and sad, but at the same time I feel so incredibly blessed and proud that I was lucky enough to experience Danny Roy Young.
By Ronnie Lanier
August 22, 2008 4:55 AM | Link to this
I went to school in Kingsville a little behind Danny…but did enjoy his pizza place. His infectious, positive spirit was a joy to behold and be in! His energy and love of life will not be surpassed. I know there is a rocking good party behind the pearly gates now, with a board man that is on a first name basis with everybody there…
By francie mojo
August 22, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this
some people search all their lives to find meaning to this adventure we call life. but danny knew it all boiled down to one thing. the best way to remember him is to keep on going and to “just be nice”… to each other, and to ourselves. a very simple, but very easy to forget, mantra. he MASTERED it! and because of that and so much else we will all miss you, danny roy!
By Mike Jez
August 22, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this
The world will be a lessor place without DRY…but he would not want it to be.
By Chris Coggins
August 22, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this
I met Danny earlier this year at a memorial service. I was there to support a friend who had lost his mother, and so was Danny. He was the most entertaining attendee of a memorial service that I have ever seen. And while his presence was larger than life, he did not draw attention to himself, though he had my attention. Danny made me laugh a lot, yet he also made me think. I am sad for those who knew him, for South Austin, and mostly for his family. He will be missed.
By Kati Young Finn-Young
August 22, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this
Thank you all for all of your wonderful comments about our Danny. I am writing from Defiance, OH, where Danny’s northern family is. The thing I remeber the most about Danny, was the way he sang to me when I was a little girl. He always sang “Yellow rose of Texas”, and although I never made it down there, I will always carry apart of Texas with me. Danny had a smile that could fill a room, no matter the mood, he was the best!! Sadly missed, but never forgotten, you will be in my heart forever. I LOVE YOU. P.S. Tell Uncle Jerry I said “Hi”, I’m sure he met you at the gates!
By Holli Young
August 22, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this
On behalf of everyone in the Young family I would like to thank everyone for the stories, the memories and the kind words. My dad was the epitomy of what it means to be a father. He loved everyone unconditionally and accepted any one that he crossed paths with. He never spoke an unkind word about anyone. One of many of my favorite memories of my dad is when I was a little girl he would taking me riding on his bike, side saddle, through the streets of Kingsville. There is a huge emptiness and void in my life without my dad here. I miss you dad. Holli Dolly
By Karyn Schaubhut
August 22, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
I got to know Danny in the mid 90’s hanging out at Texacalli for lunch with the Armstrong McCall gang. As many have already said, Danny was one of the most gentle & caring person I had ever met. He always remembered a face & welcomed you with a genuine smile. As my father mentioned above, Holli has joined our family through my brother Buck. I feel honored to have known Danny. My heart goes out to his family. Danny may be gone from this earth but he will never be forgotten!
By Kevin Smith
August 22, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
God Bless you Danny Young. Danny was one of my first ‘mentors’ so to speak, encouraging me from a young age to pursue music, and never let up. I’ve had the priveledge to know Danny since I was 12/13 years old (34 now). He lived across the street from a good friend of mine, and as often as I was over there, so was Danny, popping in to say hello often, and on one particular occasion, I remember like it was yesterday, stopping by to show off his new tattoo(s) of his grankids and fill the air with that Danny Roy Young presence..larger than life. I can say with confidence that I am a better person today because of him. He will be missed tremendously.
By Leigh Ann Rector Stadt
August 22, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this
I too am one of the fortunate “youth” to have had Danny touch my life so many years ago through the Methodist church. I have many wonderful memories of times with Danny. Last night I pulled out one of my favorite pictures from a mid-summer retreat of Danny laying on a bed and a friend of mine and I brushing his long hair.
I only saw Danny on occasion over the last years since moving from Austin. Any time I’d run into him I would introduce myself since it had been such a long time since we’d seen each other. Danny would smile that amazing smile, wrap those loving arms around me and say “I know who you are!” I am heartbroken to know I will not run into him again in Austin.
I can imagine the party going on in Heaven right now. The music is loud and festive and Jesus is saying “Good job on earth my brother. Welcome Home!”
By Kerry Watson
August 22, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
The only guy I ever met that could remember your name from the first time you met him. Austin will never be the same. Put a statue next to Stevie Ray’s
By Erik Swanson
August 22, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
Back in the mid-90’s Cornell and Danny ran across my band and took us under their wing. After that, Danny always remembered me and made me feel like I’d made his day. What an awesome, positive guy. He was a gift to the world, one we won’t forget anytime soon. Thank you Danny and Godspeed!
By Paul Goode
August 22, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
Every now and then, fortune graces the world with someone whose existence makes it a better place, who makes every life he touches the better for it. That was Danny.
I was proud to count Danny Young among my friends since since I went to work for him 34 years ago. A few years ago, he helped my wife’s son (in Seattle) with a school project simply because I asked him to. Texicalli Grille had a picture of my then one-year old son poking his head through the door from the day it opened until the day Danny retired, along with some play money Bill had generously given Danny to help get him started. These are the kinds of things he did to make everyone he touched a part of the Young’s Pizza and Texicalli Grille family.
Danny was always glad to see you, always made you feel like a million dollars, and always had a fresh way to look at anything. Just a wonderful human being, the rare kind who made you feel good for just being.
By Melanie Martinez
August 22, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
I first met Danny in the mid 80s when I was a broke college student and he gave me a job washing dishes at the S. Lamar Texicalli. I didn’t stay long but life again threw me into his sunshine soon after my husband died nearly 20 years later and I was left with a huge historic restoration project I could hardly trust to anyone. A friend said, “Let’s ask Danny!” And within minutes, the perfect contractors, his dear friends The Forsyths, came to mind and they were angels sent to repair my life. Danny was always enthusiastic about life and spread that joy around to everyone. My condolences to his family who, I know, will feel a terrible void.Thank you, Danny, for touching my life in so many positive ways.
By Laura Lester
August 22, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
There is a sad spot in my heart to see Danny go. I got the news from my grandmother, Sylvia Lester, who was a neighbor of his on Bluebonnet Lane. I have memories of him since childhood. He later gave me a job at Texicalli when it was still on S. Lamar. Kerby Lane cafe occupies that spot now but I still view it as Danny’s place. You will be missed Danny. I’ll never find another Texically sandwich. Maybe he’s making a batch up in heaven for anyone up there who wants one.
By Steven Austin
August 22, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
Danny was a True Texas Gentleman, full of life, laughs and his famous stories. He was always larger than life with his infectious smile and ‘Hi, how are ya doing?’ and the ever-present Texas handshake and a laugh. He made me feel special just to be in conversation with him and always was so glad to see me. The Mayor of South Austin is gone…I can’t quite believe it…there will not be another like him. He’s playing in the big jam in the sky with all of the other friends that we’ve lost. We’ll miss you, big guy!
By Christine Albert
August 22, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
We received the email about Danny while on the road. You hate to see the subject “very sad news” from several friends back home and I opened it with a heavy heart, knowing that our community had lost someone. Danny’s spirit and life represent the best of our town, our music community, south Austin…we are carrying our sadness across the prairie and heading south as soon as we can. Our hearts are with Danny’s family and all of our friends there in Austin. He leaves us all an incredible legacy of spirit and “joie de vivre”.
By terry belew
August 22, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
danny with his everready smile friendship hug and shake wiil be with us forever-texas terry
By Lee Ann
August 22, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
There is an void in South Austin. Danny willl not soon be forgotten. Holli- My thoughts and prayers are with you- He was to young to go but think of what all he did in the years he was here. Just look at all the peoples live he touched. We are all blessed to have been able to call him friend. Take care Holli I pray comfort for you and yours.
By mott
August 22, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Sad to hear about the loss of our beloved Mayor of South Austin! Your spirit lives on and thanks for reminding us to “Just be nice” - i promise i will! love respect and condolences to the family! Mott*= www.artforyourhead.com
By mott
August 22, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Happy Trails to the Mayor of South Austin! Thanks for reminding us ALL to “Just Be Nice”… I promise to do that ! Love Respect and Condolences to his Family, Mott*= artforyourhead
By Mitch Moorehead
August 22, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Danny boy, D.R.Y., or just cuz. You have been so much to so many. My heart goes out to the rest of the family, Aunt Marg, Lu, Scott, Holli, Boog, Dawn, D’Nese, Darla and the rest of the Austin crew. My thought and prayers are with you all. When I got the news I just couldn’t believe it. I was in shock, still am actually. It is hard for me to fathom a family reunion with out Danny. It just won’t be the same. Unfortunately our last reunion was cancelled because I was in the V.A. hospital trying rehab and adjust to life as a quadrapalegic. Everybody knew that my family and I would not be able to make it. It was Danny’s idea for everybody to cancel their vacations for the reunion and to donate the money that they would’ve spent for it to my family and I, so that we could get a wheelchair equipped van. Thats the kind of guy that Danny was. I am very sorry that we didn’t get a chance to see each other again. I along with everybody else will miss him deeply. He was always so full of life. His love of family, life and music made him such a joy to be around. He touched so many diffrent people’s lives and for diffrent reasons but always in a positive way. I have always enjoyed and wanted to move to Texas ever since our first family reunion there, years ago in ‘84 I believe. The main reason being becuase of Danny Roy Young. I believe that he embodied all that is good about not only South Austin and Texas, but life itself. I thought everybody in South Austin was like him. Danny was an example of how we all should strive to live our lives. I will miss you and your emails. I am sorry I can’t be there for the send off GOD Bless the “Lord of the board” on the stomach Stienway, DRY, Danny Roy Young.
By Marcia Ball
August 22, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
What wonderful words of love about Danny. It’s going to be a shock not seeing and hearing him in his car cruising the neighborhood, waving and visiting. He touched us all so deeply with his smile, his music, his food and his joy of living. I never did finish reading the walls of his Texicali Grills. Like his menu, he just kept piling it on. If there’s any way to honor Danny’s life, it would be to get up, go out, be together, dance, play music, love one another and say so. With condolences to Lu and his family, his beautiful grandchildren and our entire Austin community. We’ve lost another one of the best - too soon.
By Jo Nicodemus - SOH
August 22, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
We all at SOH loved Danny. He made us feel as tho we were “special”. The Cornell Hurd Band is always a delight to have there. We all know and love each and everyone of it’s members. When Danny could not make the trip to Dallas, we were all dissappointed he would not be there. Danny always called to ask about my Husbands health. When Jack passed away last October 18th, 2007, Danny was the first to call to see how he could help. His prayers and his words were so comforting and needed. I will miss him and at the same time be greatful to have known him and all our musical families who have given us all therapy through their music. Love to you and yours Lu. You are a beautiful lady. Danny adored all of you.
Jo and Sons Of Hermann
By Buck
August 22, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
Danny and Lu’s love, heart and spirit lives on through the lives of their children and grandchildren. Danny is bigger than life in the eyes of his beautiful daughter Holli, and what a role model to have as a father! Danny may have left the building but his kindness and soul will still be a part of this world for generations to come.
By Cameron Day
August 22, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this
To me, Danny personified “The Golden Rule”. We formed a friendship based on my incurable addiction to his restaurant on Oltorf. Visiting Texicalli was like coming home to grandma’s house. You left feeling loved, appreciated and well fed. My family and I will never forget the joy and generosity he so willingly shared with us. My greatest joy was taking friends into Texacali for the first time to meet Danny. Any friend of mine was treated like a treasured guest. Danny was probably the most joyful person I’ve ever known and my greatest wish is that my own children will treat others with the same level of kindness. He was better at living than any person I’ve ever known.
By Glenda Roe
August 22, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this
Danny taught me how to bop in 1954. I would never have tried, feeling so insecure. We had parties in garages when the 45’s were new and Elvis was King. Even at that age, when most kids are awkward, hormones changing the shapes and moods of this vulnerable age, and bad choices more accessible and sometimes more appealing, Danny was “THE ROCK” who stuck to his “Just be nice” slogan with such confidence and aplomb.(Along with his boundless energy and love of life) He certainly helped enhance and mold my journey through this life, as did all of his wonderful family. Everything else has been said; here is just yet one more friend of 50+ years who treasures having had his presence in my life.
By Glenda Roe
August 22, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
“BOP, BE NICE, and BEHOLD!!! Danny taught me how to bop in 1954. I would never have tried, feeling so insecure. We had parties in garages when the 45’s were new and Elvis was King. Even at that age, when most kids are awkward, hormones changing the shapes and moods of this vulnerable age, and bad choices more accessible and sometimes more appealing, Danny was “THE ROCK” who stuck to his “Just be nice” slogan with such confidence and aplomb.(Along with his boundless energy and love of life) He certainly helped enhance and mold my journey through this life, as did all of his wonderful family. Everything else has been said; here is just yet one more friend of 50+ years who treasures having had his presence in my life.
By Skyler
August 22, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
He was, and will always be, my uncle (best friend to my uncle Scott Conard). He was a great man to be around and the world will be a sadder place without him. He has known my family for ages, placing Young’s Pizza in the hands of my uncle Scott years ago. I don’t think I have ever known anyone more popular than he was…is.
Uncle Danny, I’m sorry you’re not going to be able to make it to my graduation this year, but I swear I’ll keep you in my thoughts.
God rest you, and I know that where ever you are, you’re okay.
-Skyler Conard
By Gloria Young-Finn
August 23, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this
First I want to