Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1952
DIED
2016
FUNERAL HOME
R. Linz Obituary
East Lansing
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.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for R. Linz
6 Entries
February 2, 2016
When I first met Chris in the Jackson Social Security office, I felt I had met a kindred soul. I loved his intellect, as well as our shared interest in Siskel and Elbert (the "Chicago Boys" as Chris referred to them), and our shared lack of ability to play baseball. However, most of all, Chris and Maggie were just really good people. After I moved to California and married, Cathy and I always tried to include a visit with the Linz family whenever we were back in Michigan. We treasure the memories of those visits (swimming in Lake Michigan, the Children's garden at MSU, the back yards in Grand Rapids and Okemos). We were sorry to lose touch in the last few years. However, Chris and Maggie were wonderful parents to the girls and, as such, a part of them will always be with us.
Thinking of you,
John and Cathy Burns
Jill M
January 29, 2016
I had the pleasure of knowing your Mom and meeting your father as well. I am so sad to see that your father has passed. I have very fond memories of Maggie and she crosses my mind often. My heart goes out to your family. I am sorry for your loss.
Hazel Starkey
January 26, 2016
Prayeers for the Family.
Connie Johnson
January 26, 2016
sending love and sincerest condolences
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Susan & John Scofield
January 25, 2016
Our hearts go out to the entire Linz clan.
Deb De View
January 24, 2016
Sara and family I had only known Chris for a few years. He was the first person that I knew had a DBS surgery. I knew him thru the Parkinson Support Group. I will hold all of you in m prayers
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in R. Linz's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for R. Linz
Funeral services provided by:
Estes-Leadley Funeral Home - Lansing325 W Washtenaw St., Lansing, MI 48933
How to support R.'s loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor R. Linz's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
