Linda McPherson

Linda McPherson

Linda McPherson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 26, 2014.
Linda McPherson, 69, died of injuries sustained in a March 2014 mudslide in Oso, Wash.

When Linda McPherson helped Sno-Isle Libraries design a new branch library for Darrington, she insisted on a big window with a view of Whitehorse Mountain. McPherson grew up on an Oso dairy farm whose pastures stretched down to the North Fork of the Stillaguamish River.

She earned a degree from the University of Washington in oceanography and worked as an oceanographer for 10 years, but when it was time to start a family, she and husband Gary "Mac" McPherson, returned to Darrington and bought land from her parents where they built a house. The two were in the living room when the slide hit. Battered, he survived.

After living in the same mountain community all her life, McPherson likely wouldn't have moved away, even if the danger of a slide were fully known, her daughter said. "She loved the land. That was her home. She was never going to leave."

Courtesy of The Seattle Times

Sign Linda McPherson's Guest Book

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April 23, 2014

Amy & Dayle Massey posted to the memorial.

April 20, 2014

Someone posted to the memorial.

April 18, 2014

Kandy Hayes posted to the memorial.

79 Entries

Amy & Dayle Massey

April 23, 2014

Dear Mac, Kate and Eric, and family, Linda was the best boss ever, and her kindness, encouragement and support will never be forgotten. We join you in mourning the loss of Linda.

April 20, 2014

Prayers go out to the surviving family and friends may the God of comfort continue to bless you and yours especially after such a tragic loss. Please accept my deepest sympathies. 2 Cor. 1:2,3.

Kandy Hayes

April 18, 2014

To the family, we are so deeply saddened and touched by your loss. No words could ever express our compassion and sympathies for you at this time. Your loss has touched the world and brought a community to its knees, yet we also see them standing strong to rally and hold one another. We think of you daily and pray for your peace nightly. Our family would like to do something special for you, if you could please contact us through Kurt's Cause on Facebook, or me directly through FB, I would greatly appreciate it. Until then, please know that we pray that you find the strength and courage that you so need each and every day. ~Kandy Hayes, and family.

Linda McPherson Perry

April 15, 2014

Time and unforseen occurance befall us all..(Eccl 9:11). May your family allow the love they have for one another draw you closer together in the days to come. Deepest sympathy to the family. Thoughts and prayers are with you.

April 11, 2014

Dear Family: Although there exist no words that can ease the pain you experience today, I just want to extend my most sincere condolences for loosing Mrs. McPherson in death. I can only imagine how unexpected settings like this one, upset someone's heart and brings so much emotional suffering. My thoughts are with you and with those who loved Mrs. McPherson dearly. “God's eyes are upon the righteous ones and His ears listen to our cry for help” – May God turn his attention to your circumstances, and grant you the strength and inner peace you need to deal with your loss.

Evans family

April 7, 2014

In the loss of one who meant so much, for every memory in your heart this brings thoughts of peace. May the God of peace guard your heart.

Merle Green

April 7, 2014

I cannot think of Linda without feeling joy for everything her life stood for. If she believed in you, there was no doubt that she was on your side for the long haul. Memories will sustain us, time will heal our hearts, and we will always remember this quiet champion. The world is a better place because of Linda's message of acceptance and tolerance.

April 5, 2014

AH, Linda and Mac, I OSO wanted to be there for your memorial today. I am living in Oregon now, so far away from the loving community of Oso / Darrington / Arlington. You two made a lasting impression on my girls, Ashley and Juliana, a gift for me as a mother. My love and thoughts to you, Chris (Olds) DeBruler.

Ric Ghirardini

April 5, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with Mac, Eric and Katie at this terrible time. I have fond memories of her and her children from Burn Hill School.

Joanne Latham(Hollingsworth)

April 5, 2014

To the Mahlum family We would like to send our prayers and good thoughts. We went to school with Helen,Alice,Stanley and Irene and spent many nights with the family,We will always cherish those memories,
Joanne &Josephine Hollingsworth

Carolyn Cross

April 5, 2014

to the family of Linda - my heart aches with this devastation. Our family home was next to her parents at Hazel in the early 60's. I was unable to attend the services, but my heart and memories were present. Our world is rocked with this devasatation, but may the goodness of our memories provide strength to all of you in the days, weeks and months ahead. Most sincerely, Carolyn Nysether Cross.

Jackie miles

April 5, 2014

You were a wonderful example for the kids in school and life you will be missed dearly your former classmates

Twyla Mathis

April 5, 2014

So sorry for the family and friends who knew Linda she was a awesome person and we were lucky to know someone like her

April 5, 2014

SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE,MATT.5:7..HAPPY ARE THE MERICIFUL,SINCE THEY WLL BE SHOWN MERCY...SOON DEATH WILL BE SWALLOWED UP FOREVER.....NC

Teirasa Mower

April 5, 2014

Linda god has taking you from your Family and friends but you will not be forgotten and now you can give God your green thumb you will be missed always and forever in my prayers and thoughts are with your Family

Judy OConnor

April 5, 2014

There are no words to describe the horrible tragedy in which we lost our friend. May knowing that you are not grieving alone in some way ease your pain. Memory eternal, Linda, Rest in Peace, your work here is done.

barbara scott

April 4, 2014

Just looking through our Darrington Logger yearbook ('63) and all the memories of Linda. She was EXCEPTIONAL in so many ways, giving, sensitive. Broken-hearted for each family and our "old way of life".. Barbara (Gilbert) Scott

Lori, Elizabeth & Erin Orton & Allen Burtman

April 4, 2014

We are so sorry for your loss. From the pictures we see, it looks like Linda had a great love for the outdoors and life. I know she will be deeply missed by her friends and her family.

Leslie Franzen

April 4, 2014

Dear Mac, Kate, Eric and the entire McPherson family-Linda was a dear friend, colleague and mentor. I had the good fortune to work alongside her in Sno-Isle Libraries and learn from her experience and wisdom. Her loving, caring nature and her true understanding of the community she loved made her a leader among her colleagues and community. Please know that the library community is sending our love, prayers and support to all of you. She was a blessing to all who knew her. Thank you for sharing these wonderful photos of Linda. Sincerely,

April 4, 2014

DEAR MCPHERSON FAMILY,SO SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE.HAVE FAITH IN GOD'S PROMISE OF THE EARTH BECOMING A PARADISE.AND ONE OF IT'S MANY BLESSINGS WILL BE TO DO AWAY WITH DEATH FOREVER...ISA.55:11..PSLM37:10,11,29.....

April 3, 2014

Linda was always kind to my sister Debbie, my sons and I. We will carry her close to our hearts. Love to both sides of the family. Love ya all (Susan Jo McPherson) Suzanne Weatherford

Janice Gilbert McMahan

April 2, 2014

Although I didn't know Linda personally, I know of the family integrity and her great dedication to Darrington. My sincere sympathy to your families, especially to Sylvia and Irene.

April 1, 2014

Linda, you are one in a million. We miss you! Mechelle VanHoudt

Debby Colfer

April 1, 2014

Linda was such a special person. She is greatly missed by so many. I loved seeing her once a month at our library building head meetings. She was always so nice and willing to share her words of wisdom. I know that she was loving her well deserved retirement, and I am sad that her life was cut short by this tragic event. I am so sorry for your loss.

Helen Taubeneck

April 1, 2014

Hey Linda, I will miss you. Thanks for putting up with all my messy craft ideas and the life sized eagles nest. Remember the day we laughed so hard we cried? I will never forget it and all of the other days we shared.

Nan and ken Leaman

April 1, 2014

Dear Mac and family,

We are so saddened to hear of Linda's passing and of your incredible loss. We will forever remember her and her lovely spirit. You were such good neighbors to us all the years we lived in the valley just down from you at Hazel. We are thinking of you with much caring and hold you all in our prayers. Our best to you every day.
Nan and Ken Leaman and Family

Susan Everett

March 31, 2014

Linda, I am so glad I got to know you and your wonderful family. Your , intelligent and warm personality have contributed to some of my favorite memories of conversations during those lively family events your family so often has. I loved hearing the stories of you growing up on the family farm, and going there to visit. Your whole family will grieve the loss of you, and your family homes, and land. I am so glad Mac got rescued right away, and know you would be glad too. This whole tragedy has forevermore affected your whole community, and I am sure if you were still here you would play a vital role in consoling people, especially your beloved children, sisters and brother, and their families. You will be deeply missed by so many people.
Love, Susan Everett

Terry Beck

March 31, 2014

What joy Linda brought to every person and task she encountered. I still remember the first day that I saw the expanded Darrington Library and Linda's pride and joy--that gorgeous meeting room window. There was only one thing brighter in that room and that was Linda's smile. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Ruth Zander

March 31, 2014

Linda, you are one of the people I remember when I first started working for Sno-Isle. Your strength, spirit and caring nature and how you loved your library and community impressed me greatly. You are an example of a great person, library employee, and citizen that I'd like to emulate. How loved you were. I know you're smiling down at your loved ones and giving them comfort right now as they are missing you.

Sheryl

March 31, 2014

Heartfelt sympathy from Lewiston, Idaho

March 31, 2014

In loving memory of our classmate DHS Class of 1963. A talented and intelligent lady for sure; will be missed in her community; one she loved and served. Jackie Evans Pelkey

L B

March 30, 2014

You will be greatly missed! I enjoyed the times I worked with you. For the family may you find peace and so sorry for your loss.

Jeffrey R. Plunkett

March 30, 2014

She seems like an immensely talented person. From Sandpoint, Idaho we send our sincerest condolences to Linda's husband, family, friends, and community.

March 30, 2014

Alice and Bill and family. My deepest sympathy in your loss.
Sincerely, Jean Rohona

Duane/Sherri Sanford

March 30, 2014

To all the relatives of linda Mcpherson , her Husband Gary and Children Eric abd Kate and other siblings we offer our sincere condolence and prayers for thier loss in this awful disaster. Even though did not get too meet her and Gary ,I went to school with her sister Irene and husband Ralph. So our prayers also go to their son and his familys loss of thier home. She will not be forgotten in the Darrington community for all her unselfish tributes and love she gave to the community.

carina green/hockaday

March 30, 2014

I have some great memories with you at the library growing up. You will be greatly missed.

Alice Medin

March 29, 2014

You will always be by my side.

Patty Smith

March 29, 2014

Linda is a light in our lives here and is lighting the heavens with her spirit.

Robert McPherson

March 29, 2014

May this memory become a treasure. Know for certain that we never lose the people we love,Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. Find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared Linda"s love. She is your guardian now. She will always be with you.

Love is forever..Clan Macpherson Family, Scotland ,USA and around the world.
Robert McPherson, Olympia Washington

March 29, 2014

To the Mcpherson Family and Friends,

Linda's wonderful qualities will be remembered by you all may you find a measure of joy as you reflect on her quality of life. Please find comfort in Gods promise of a better world for us all as he promises to end death permanently 1Cor 15:26. My deepest sympathy to you All

todd martin

March 29, 2014

Peace

Carolyn Allendoerfer

March 29, 2014

When I worked with the Darrington School Board in the late 1990's, it was a pleasure to work with Linda. I remember her as an intelligent, quiet leader whose focus was on having the best possible educational opportunities for everyone in the Darrington School District. She will continue to be in all of our hearts.

Inga Leer-Bergstad

March 29, 2014

So sorry for your loss. We are praying for the family. The Esther Mahlum-Leer family in central Oregon

VW

March 29, 2014

I wish to offer since condolences to the McPherson Family. May you find peace of mind and heart in the comfort and love that God provides. He will strengthen you now and in the days ahead. Soon tragedies of this kind will be no more!

Chris Macri

March 28, 2014

My deepest condolences to Mac, Sylvia, Ron and All of your family and loved ones! May you truly sense our Lord and Savior's peace and comfort during this time of loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all ! Much love,

Debbie Mahlum

March 28, 2014

Rest in Peace Linda, sad I can't make the memorial service my thoughts will be with you and my whole family. Loves and hugs

Alan Pickard

March 28, 2014

Linda was a leader and visionary for the Town of Darrington and The Darrington School District! Michael and I send warm thoughts, great appreciation, and deepest sympathy to Linda's family.

March 28, 2014

My sincere condolences to the family in the sudden loss of your loved one. May you find comfort from each other and from the God of all Comfort.

Chelsea Lovett

March 28, 2014

So many wonderful memories of Linda... She inspired me to read beyond Babysitters Club books and magazines :)

Pamela Skerratt

March 28, 2014

Bless the family and keep her wishes with you always. R.I.P. Linda

Chris DeBruler

March 28, 2014

HEY LINDA, you were the first to accept me, a city girl, in Darrington in 1989, other than Grover and Ernestine Jones. I OSO have stories of bringing my little ones into the library. You and Mac gave us our first horses, Desi, the palomino of all dreams, and Dolly the one any one could ride mare....You OSO got my politics, and humor and love of reading and learning....Dang you and Mac are SMART folks.My girls OSO remember you. HEY, I am thinking we met in a past life! I think you were my OSO sister. Much love, CHRIS.

Jeanne Crisp

March 27, 2014

I worked with Linda when the Darrington Library was expanded a few years ago. She brought to the project so many skills, such talent and knowledge. And she cared so deeply that the library would be a comfortable place for the community and for the staff. I hope everyone has a chance to sit in the library's meeting room, look out the big glass windows at the mountains and think of Linda's many good works.

evana block

March 27, 2014

Peace my dear ...

Carol Williams

March 27, 2014

To Linda's family & friends: We pray for God's peace as you go through this terrible time. All of us in Snohomish county, in Washington state, and in the USA, hurt right along with you.

Shirley Ochoa

March 27, 2014

Sending thoughts and prayers to you all may here memory continue to live thru each and everyone if you. Hugggs from afar. Although I didn't know you my heart goes out to you during this time.

Kris Hameister

March 27, 2014

I also live on the East coast, but have followed this closely, as very dear friends have 6 family members missing (including their 6 year old & 4 year old nephews). My heart aches for every one of you that is going through this horrible ordeal. God Bless you Linda- I am happy that your family was able to find some sort of peace and closure with finding you AND "Snowy". Although, I myself, cannot understand "God's Plan" for this type of thing- and this is where my Catholic Faith has its little waves- but know that I do believe that you are at peace and with your "Snowy" angel girl! God a Bless!

Amanda Phillips

March 27, 2014

Going to the library and seeing Linda is such a great childhood memory of mine! She will be dearly missed.

Kathy Freilinger-Hart

March 27, 2014

Dear Family and friends of Linda. Your pain in your loss is thousands fold as we all think and pray for you. May God give you peace that passes all understanding.

Tracy Prior

March 27, 2014

I will miss you. Our families thoughts and prayers are with your friends and family.

Rosy Brewer

March 27, 2014

Linda, I so enjoyed working with you on the Sno-Isle action committee we both served on. I was so happy that you were able to retire. I remember you saying you would be spending time cooking with your family. I just can't believe this happened to you but you will be remembered.

Vera Booker Evans

March 27, 2014

Linda was our classmate, our friend. We the class of 1963 will miss her. May You Rest In Peace Linda, until we meet again.
May God be with your family, comfort them, and give them peace.

Debbi Marx

March 27, 2014

Aunt Linda, you will always be with us. You have given so much to our family. Your laugh, wisdom, and good Mahlum stock brings a smile to my face, and warmth to my soul. Let's Celebrate your glorious Life! You have touched so many.

Helena Dantoni

March 27, 2014

I live on the East coast and can't imagine the loss . I am so sorry . Sending light and love .

Nikki Lopez

March 27, 2014

Our thoughts & prayers go out to her friends & family. God rest her soul?

March 27, 2014

My sympathy goes out to the family during your time of grief. May God's loving-kindness comfort you and help you through this difficult time. (Psalm 119:50,76)

Lelia Booker-Burns

March 27, 2014

Our hearts, our love and our prayers go out to all of Linda's family. She was a beautiful gift and blessing to your family, but also, to the community and this world. May God bless you with comfort and peace that surpasses understanding.
God Bless
Lelia Booker-Burns & Family

Alanna Stone

March 27, 2014

I met Linda when I was a trustee for Sno-Isle. I remember her vividly as a wonderful, warm, and gracious person. I am so sorry for the loss to all her loved ones.

Erin Wood

March 26, 2014

I suppose I should correct what my phone did wrong, I said I never saw her WITHOUT a smile. :)

March 26, 2014

MAY GOD BE WITH YOU R.I.P.

Peggy Stenson

March 26, 2014

I didn't know Linda but wanted to express my condolences to your family. I am praying for you all.

DStallings

March 26, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

DStallings

March 26, 2014

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Cindy Stanton

March 26, 2014

My sincerest condolences for the loss of Linda.

Erin Wood

March 26, 2014

I do not believe that I ever saw Linda with a smile on her face. She was one of the most caring and helpful women I have met in my life. for commitment to the kids in her community was unparalleled, and she never failed to go out of her way to make someone's day easier or better.

Scott Chamberland

March 26, 2014

Please accept my Deepest Sympathies

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April 23, 2014

Amy & Dayle Massey posted to the memorial.

April 20, 2014

Someone posted to the memorial.

April 18, 2014

Kandy Hayes posted to the memorial.