Michael Lindgren Obituary
Michael David Lindgren
April 28, 1968 - October 28, 2025
Michael David Lindgren, 57, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, at the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, Va., after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was surrounded by loved ones while receiving exceptional care from the hospital's dedicated staff. Born on April 28, 1968, in New Haven, Conn., Michael was the son of Richard A. Lindgren of Charlottesville, Va., and the late Ruth S. Rog, formerly of Westport Point, Mass. Ruth passed away in January 2025. Michael is survived by his father; his brother, Richard A. Lindgren Jr. of Richmond; his sisters, Dana L. Shoup and Kristin L. Henningsen, both of Charlottesville; and his children, Christopher "Chris" Michael Lindgren and Michelle "Elle" Margaret Lindgren, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews: Richard III, Eric, Jack, Katie, Alexa, David, Max, and Chip, who brought him immense joy and laughter. Michael grew up primarily in Amherst, Mass., where he graduated from Amherst Regional High School. He had a wide circle of friends and was known as an entertainer, jokester, and purveyor of nicknames. He loved making people laugh. Michael enjoyed playing sports and excelled in tennis, lacrosse, and youth football. He also had a passion for skateboarding and hacky sacking, often while listening to Bob Marley. Michael earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Virginia and began his career in the Boston area. His time there was filled with fond memories, especially at the seaside home in Quincy he shared with his former wife, Chrissi Wood-Smith, where friends and family often gathered for weekend get-togethers and boat rides into Boston Harbor. Michael's intelligence, competitive spirit, and entrepreneurial drive led him to patent an innovative chemical process used in the manufacture of bookbinding glue. He went on to found American Adhesives, LLC in 2001 in Waynesboro, Va. The family moved to Charlottesville at that time, where his children were born and raised. Michael lived for the remainder of his life there. Though the company became highly successful, many family members and friends fondly remember the early start-up days-rolling up sleeves on weekends to help make glue when times were tight and orders were piling up. More than his accomplishments, Michael's life was defined by the people he loved. His children, Chris and Elle, brought him profound joy. He celebrated their successes and cherished every moment with them. He was particularly proud of his children's educational achievements. Chris plans to graduate from James Madison University in May 2026 with a B.S. in Business/Hospitality and a minor in Art. Elle will graduate from the University of North Carolina Wilmington this December 2025 with a B.S. in Environmental Science and two minors in Oceanography and Marine Biology, graduating cum laude. Michael always had four-legged friends that he adored. Large or small, he loved them all. He is survived by his two precious Persian cats, Nadia and Leo, who live with his sister Kristin, but he has loved many others as well including Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Weimaraners. Michael loved to follow the weather, especially the large Nor'easter storms that New England experiences regularly. He was also a successful investor and followed the stock markets closely. He probably would have excelled at being a stockbroker. He certainly was able to predict the markets better than the weather. His son, Chris, learned this skill from his father. Michael also loved music and sports. He was self-taught on the guitar and played it regularly. His daughter, Elle, fondly recalls asking him to play "Sweet Home, Alabama" repeatedly when she was little. He also religiously followed sports. He loved New England Patriots and attended several games in Massachusetts with his children. His favorite baseball team was, of course, the Boston Red Sox. Michael loved to travel, especially to the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Disney World-often organizing generous family trips. He found deep happiness in seeing his family together, laughing and enjoying life. A celebration of Michael's life will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 2 p.m., at Teague Funeral Home in Charlottesville, Va., where family and friends are invited to share stories and memories. There will be a private burial in New England at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Charlottesville Albemarle SPCA. Those who knew Michael will remember his brilliant mind, mischievous wit, and the way he could light up a room. His deep love for his family and his unforgettable spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
Published by Daily Progress on Nov. 2, 2025.