William E. "Bill" Linson Jr.

Bill spent 25 years in hospital administration and 15 years doing college athletic PR at Indiana State, Purdue and the Mid-American Conference. He also did weekend sports TV for an ABC affiliate in Columbus, OH and 11 years as a color analyst on Ashland University Football broadcasts. In addition, Bill was a world class model train enthusiast. In December of last year, he sent me this: "I had a basement-sized model railroad (roughly 29´ x 36´) which I downsized to a room-sized railroad when we downsized and moved into a villa here in St. Louis. About five years ago, I was asked to present to the St. Louis division of the National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) an hour-long "clinic" on what the "survivor(s)" would/could do to dispose of the railroad upon of hobbyists´ passing. Three years ago, I made the following post on my blog:

"Three primary reasons (for the downsizing) ... first, I will be 80 years old this year, and can no longer stand for lengthy periods nor squat to reach the lower level; thus, I can´t maintain the room-size two level layout. Second, the electronics have surpassed any semblance of expertise i enjoy, and thus, I have to hire someone to maintain and install the electronics of the railroad. And third, when the time comes (and I hope that´s way off), I don´t want Sue faced with getting rid of all this stuff."

Bill and I met through his college roommate John Jerman, and he was kind enough to get a book I had just written and told me he really enjoyed it. He sent me three long emails about his train hobby and a lot of pictures. He was a great man, and I feel so blessed to have known him, even briefly. My condolences to the family.

Bill was a great friend to my father and he & Sue were terrific neighbors for the last twelve years. I know that he has reunited with Sue in Heaven and that he is beloved by his entire family. Rest In Peace and God Bless You.

Bill was a great guy. I enjoyed working with him on health care issues when I was a local newspaper editor.
I wish the obituary had more biographical info on where else he worked, besides Samaritan .
I am finally starting to enjoy one of his passions, train rides to special places.

I'll miss you, Bill

Bill took a risk on a new college graduate and gave me my first professional job, which has turned into a 27 year career in healthcare! I loved those early years at Samaritan and learned so much from Bill. He and Sue both had such a welcoming personality and warm hearts. They truly were the perfect duo to recruit doctors to Ashland. Some of the best doctors we have ever had in town are still here and were recruited by Bill. I have no doubt he left a legacy everywhere he lived. Rest in peace with your beloved Sue!

I began working with Bill in 1997 at Samaritan and I enjoyed every day of it. He was that cross between father and employer. I learned so much from him that I still use to this day. I can still hear his voice, especially when telling stories. Now he is with his beautiful Sue again; I know his heart was broken when she passed. Until we meet again Bill, rest in glorious peace!

Bill is one of the most extraordinary people I have ever met. His beautiful sense of humor will always bring a smile to my face. And his drive to achieve was also a fun part of being around him. I was privileged to have accompanied him and Sue to the inaugural flight of his project to bring emergency helicopter service to Grant Hospital in Columbus. What an accomplishment for him and the community. And what an exciting and fun day it was! I'll always remember Bill's drive, his creative wit and contagious laugh. It’s difficult to think of Sue OR Bill. Sue AND Bill is where it gets real. And so, may the two rest peacefully together. To his family, I pray cherished memories will lift you up forever

May God bless the Linson family.

Bill, I will miss your laugh, your stories and your fiery sense of humor. I will miss my friend.

Bill and Sue were close friends with whom I shared many wonderful trips and adventures. We spoke every day and often shared meals together. They will be missed leaving a void in my life. Rest well dear friend!