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Linda Salter Obituary
Dec. 23, 1939-Aug. 3, 2020
San Mateo
Linda Louise Graef Salter passed away peacefully at her home in San Mateo on the morning of August 3, with her "girls" Heidi and Sugie by her side. She died as she lived, with style and grace, refusing to let cancer break her spirit. In the month before her death, Linda spent a wonderful two-and-a-half weeks with her son Hayden, getting foot rubs non-stop. The day before her death, she was still cracking jokes.
Linda was born in Ft. Wayne Indiana to Richard and Louise Graef and was older sister to brother Richard, two years her junior. She was a graduate of Oberlin College (1961), where she majored in philosophy and met her future husband, Kit. The two of them lived in Taiwan for three years before moving to California and having two children, Hayden and Heidi. They divorced after 16 years and Linda began her journey as an unstoppable and independent woman, overcoming obstacles and shattering glass ceilings.
Linda had a long and successful career in academics. After earning her MA in mathematics at UC Berkeley (1970), she taught both high school and college math before moving into college administration. She served as division chair and then Acting Dean at Pepperdine University, Dean and Vice President at Grossmont College, President of Skyline Community College and Chancellor of the West Valley/Mission Community College District. Though she retired as Chancellor in 2002, her proudest accomplishment was the fourteen years she spent as President of Skyline, during which time the college saw unprecedented growth in enrollment and facilities, including the Library & Learning Resource Center that houses the Multi-Cultural Learning Center. Throughout her career, as in her private life, she was always a staunch advocate for social justice, fighting to bring women and people of color into leadership roles on college campuses.
After her retirement, Linda relished taking art classes and spending time in her studio. From pastel landscapes to oil portraits to Chinese brush painting to knitted pussy hats, her artist's soul knew no boundaries. She cultivated an eclectic community of artists, former colleagues, friends and family. Her art receptions were always good parties, her charm, style, and wicked sense of humor on brilliant display.
She died with dignity and grace, as she always did everything in her life. "What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" asked the poet Mary Oliver. Linda's response: "Everything!"
She is survived by her son Hayden and his wife Ana; daughter Heidi and her wife Sugie; grandkids Nicolas, Inés and Catalina; brother Richard and family; and her beloved dog Nettie.
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Memories and Condolences
for Linda Salter
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Jean Reese
January 26, 2023
Its been over two years but I'm hoping this goes to family members. I'm 77 years old and periodically I seem to find myself "looking up people from my life", and Linda was one of them. Sad thing, each time I have done this the person has already passed away. I was Linda's secretary for about 7 years when she was a Dean at Grossmont College. Yes, she was one amazing woman. I am so glad to hear about her final days "being good ones". I lost my hubby from cancer also, June 10, 2020 and as I tell people, most of the time he did fine. I can't help but comment on the "survived by her beloved dog Nettie". I have a beloved girl, Roxy, and my daily prayer is that I am allowed to live long enough to send her to Doggy Heaven. Following my hubby's passing, when I would leave the home, for a couple of hours or all day, she would be inside the utility/garage door when I left and still there when I returned. It took her 9 months to accept the fact that "yes, I was coming home". Her daddy went away and didn't return. I'm all she has, and she's all I have at this point so we enjoy each day. She's about the same age I am in "human years". I so enjoyed reading about Linda as it brought back such wonderful memories of a truly great gal. I hope, with the time since her passing, that family does get to read this.
Eric A. Seitz
June 11, 2021
Linda was my dearest and closest friend — my rock — for several tumultuous years in Berkeley and thereafter. Seeing and playing Hayden and Heidi when they were very young helped to keep we grounded and sane. Sadly we lost touch after she and Kit divorced and I moved to Hawaii. I only just learned of Linda’s death today when I read my most recent Oberlin alumni magazine. I am very sad, but I have many wonderful memories of her that I will continue to cherish.
Cindy Mike
May 19, 2021
I’m very sorry for your loss. I have a pastel portrait by Linda of a lovely red headed woman in a turquoise blouse that I would be happy to give to family. I obtained this in an auction.
Terry Michaud
September 10, 2020
It was so sad to learn of Linda's passing. I met Linda in 1987 while she was looking for a home in the San Mateo area. We found one on Alameda in Belmont that she absolutely fell in love with. It was quaint, charming, rustic and secluded and even though I found a larger home for her when her Mother came to stay with her, that home was always in her heart. It was my extreme pleasure to have met Linda and to assist her in her real estate needs.
When she retired and took up painting, I went to a few of her shows that displayed her art and those of others that were in art colony ... she really had amazing talent!
Most of all, she had a zest for living, her love of family, her friends and of course her dogs.
I was proud to be considered her friend. RIP Linda.
Thomas Broxholm
August 14, 2020
I first meet Linda in a hiring interview back in 1989. Six months later in a new position interview she hired me for the automotive department. I thank her very much for taking a chance in hiring a professor with only a subject matter teaching credential and no college degree. She made my second career with that one choice. I still have a very fond memory of finding out that she shared a love of Thai food with me when her and Suzie Stevens took me to lunch shortly after being hired. I loved chatting with Linda when I would see her on campus for art classes or social events. I will miss her.
Luciana Castro
August 13, 2020
She hired me in 1997. She has always invited me to her studio and gallery exhibit. She was so fun and happy-go-lucky. I will have her in my heart all my life! My deepest condolences!
Luciana Castro
Sharron Walker
August 11, 2020
Linda lived her life fully, setting an example for others, influencing positively so many! As a friend and art associate she was such a wonderful role model, contributed so much to the Art Community in Pacifica and beyond, encouraging others to follow their passions which she did in such an impressive way. She will be missed by so many but she will continue to be an inspiration for me and well as others!
Peggy Paul
August 11, 2020
I was Linda's secretary from July 1982-July1986 when she was a Dean and Vice-President at Grossmont College. She was a warm and caring person whose concern that students get the best education was foremost. Linda's personality made her a favorite with the staff and her work ethic made her a favorit with college leadership. I cherish the memories of working with Linda and hope that the loving memories of her family bring them comfort.
Linda Dever MA artist and CCSF art professor
August 10, 2020
Always smiling and loving life . When we walked into her studio she was glowing happy to see you and cracking jokes .
I talked with her after going to the Peninsula Art museum just before lock down . She was in her car and told us that the cancer returned . She was a bright light gone too soon .
Yvonne Canada
August 10, 2020
I only had the great pleasure to meet Linda a few times but it was very clear where her beloved daughter, Heidi, gets her indomitable spirit! She clearly touched so many lives, and I know her loss leaves a big gap for all who loved her. My deepest condolences to my dearest Heidi and Sugie, and all of the Salter family. May your memories of her give you peace, and her example give you hope, power and courage. Much love to you all.
Karen Schwarz
August 8, 2020
So honored and privileged to have known Linda, as a professional and exciting woman. She will always be remembered as stated, ahead of her time, excited about life, and fun to be with.
She has left this earth a better place. Fondly, Frank & Karen Schwarz
Dawn Harper (Goodson)
August 8, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with all of Linda’s friends and family especially Heidi, Hayden and Richard. With love, Dawn Harper (Goodson)
Debbie Goodson/Parker
August 7, 2020
I thought of Linda and Richard as my sister and brother growing up. Bumma and Bumpa were like grandparents to me. Many great memories of playing and having birthdays at the Graef's. God bless your family and give you comfort at this time.
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