R. Christopher Linz

R. Christopher Linz demonstrated enthusiasm throughout his life for a myriad of interests including foreign languages and cultures, genealogy, intellectual games, bowling, and woodworking.  He had a long career serving the federal government, working most recently as a systems analyst for the Social Security administration.  Always prioritizing his family, he maintained his zest for life, despite the physical challenges caused by his early-onset Parkinson’s disease.  He passed away peacefully on January 21 at the age of 64.

Chris was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Gifford Linz (1952-2010), and he is survived by his four daughters: Rebecca O’Laughlin (Carolyn O’Laughlin), Sarah Linz (Cecilia Garcia), Rachel Linz (Max Johnson) and Hannah Linz; and four grandchildren (Avery and Caleb O’Laughlin and Allison and Ethan Rufenacht).  He is also survived by his mother, Frances Pierson Linz; and his siblings: Michael Linz (Barbara Klapp), Stephanie Linz-Gould (William Gould), and Peter Linz (Marlene Rudy Linz).

The funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 27, at Estes-Leadley Funeral Home at 325 W. Washtenaw St. in Lansing.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Chris’s memory may be made to Congregation Kehillat Israel, the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

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12 Messages to “R. Christopher Linz

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Jeff and Joan Miller
January 23, 2016 at 4:56 pm

We would like to express our thoughts of support for the Family at this difficult time. Especially Rebecca, Sarah, Rachel, and Hannah.
May you find comfort in your memories. God Bless.

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Dale Owen
January 23, 2016 at 6:13 pm

Chris and I worked together in the Lansing SSA office for years, until I took early retirement at the end of 1994. He was truly one of the finest men I’ve ever known. He was kind and friendly to everyone, did a great job, and cared deeply about people. I was blessed to know him, and his very young at the time family.

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Angela Baiz
January 25, 2016 at 9:34 am

I worked with Chris at the end of his career at SSA. He was a kind man who taught me a lot when I joined the ASC team. I was blessed to have known him. RIP Chris

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Alex Samson
January 25, 2016 at 9:49 am

I worked with Chris at SSA, and he was always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. We are all truly the better for having known him. RIP my friend.

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Debby and George Schankler
January 25, 2016 at 3:11 pm

Dear Sarah and Cecelia, We did not know your father well, but liked talking to him. You youngsters, Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Hannah are such fine young people. It is apparent how much he treasured you, and he was such a special person. We know you had many good times and brought him strength in difficulty. Isaac would send you condolences as well. We think of him as a courageous knight. Hugs, D and G. Schankler

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Tedd and Carol Sperling
January 26, 2016 at 10:45 am

Our condolence on the passing of your Father. The loss of our Fathers has left an empty spot in our Hearts as well.

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Mark Cosgrove
January 26, 2016 at 4:40 pm

Sarah,

I am out of state and am unable to attend services, but please know my thoughts as well as those of the entire Division staff are with you at this difficult time. We consider you part of our family and look forward to having you back with us when you are ready. Our best to you. — Mark

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Bruce Shaw
January 26, 2016 at 6:34 pm

I worked with Chris for some years at the Lansing ADO. I enjoyed his knowledge, professionalism and wit a great deal. He was a wonderful co-worker and a great guy to be around.

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Bill and Karen Linz
January 27, 2016 at 8:49 am

Dear family, we morn the loss of Chris. We lift you all up in our prayers and offer up our deepest sympathy to his beautiful children and grand children. Chris we be greatly missed, but his life and memories will live on through the family.

With all Our Love,
Bill, Karen, Joseph, Sarah, Rosalie, and Anna

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Marilyn Kesler
January 27, 2016 at 1:59 pm

Dear Becky, Sarah, Rachel, and Hannah,

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. I did not know that he was so very ill. Time goes by so fast. I am thinking of you and remembering you all along with your mother. Hannah, Sunny Cirlin keeps me abreast of your accomplishments. The best to you all as your lives continue. I am sure your father has been so proud of you.

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Jill M
January 29, 2016 at 12:09 pm

Sara and family,

I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your father. I had the pleasure of meeting him when your Mom was ill. I have fond memories of Maggie and think of her often. She touched my life and my heart. I am so sorry that you have lost your Dad. I hope your memories bring you some joy in this sad time.

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ZoAnn Lapinsky Macon
January 29, 2016 at 4:02 pm

I, too, worked with Chris in Lansing, and he was one of the best. The world is a sadder place without him in it.

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