Emmett Andrew Linder

Emmett Andrew Linder passed away peacefully at his home in Salinas on March 16, 2026, following a brief illness. He will be profoundly missed by his family and friends.

Emmett was born to James and Joan Linder on November 30, 1958, and was the third of five boys. Born and raised in Salinas, he carried deep pride for his hometown throughout his life. Emmett attended Madonna del Sasso school, Palma High School and Hartnell College.

Emmett's remarkable career in agriculture was fostered by the foundation he built at Hartnell College, whose agriculture programs led him to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business Management. While at Cal Poly, Emmett's natural gift for leadership was already on display as he managed the university's dairy facility responsible for producing milk, cheese, and yogurt for distribution on campus.

After graduation, Emmett launched his career with the Kroger Company as a fresh produce field inspector, experience that soon opened the door to an opportunity with Driscoll Strawberry Associates. Over his remarkable 40-year tenure at Driscoll's, Emmett held various leadership roles, including Supply Chain, Quality, Transportation/Food Safety, and Mission Engagement. His most-recent role, which involved sharing his experiences with employees to ensure all were in alignment with Driscoll's shared values and to always strive to "Delight," was an ideal fit as these were all attributes he innately exhibited.

Emmett took great joy in raising his children Matthew and Catherine and watching them grow into thriving adults, now both with young families of their own. Although they lived out of state, he often gushed with pride over them and his granddaughters and looked forward to every visit.

After many years as a bachelor, he met Ana C. Toledo and the two were married in 2014. Emmett often spoke with great warmth of what a blessing she was and the immense joy she brought to his life. Spending time together, along with Ana's extensive family, was deeply meaningful and fulfilling. Emmett thoroughly enjoyed their annual trips abroad to destinations such as Brazil, Europe, Japan, Zanzibar, Egypt and Ana's ancestral home of the Azores Islands. Beyond the adventure and cultural richness these trips offered, they also gave Emmett the opportunity to do something he truly loved, sending postcards to friends and family. Characteristically, each card reflected his warmth and consideration for others, a small but meaningful gesture that spoke far more of his thoughtfulness than of any desire to boast about his travels.

Together, Emmett and Ana created a welcoming and comfortable home, taking great joy in hosting their many friends and families during holidays, special occasions and everyday gatherings. This same spirit extended to their cabin in Arroyo Seco, where many great meals were enjoyed and long, unhurried hours were spent basking in the sun floating on the peaceful river together, sometimes in quiet solitude and just as often in the company of the people they loved.

Community was deeply important to Emmett, and his passion for being of service to others was always a heartfelt priority. He generously gave his time and talent, leaving a lasting impact through his leadership and service. Most recently he was on the Board of the Elkhorn Slough Foundation and was the President of the Hartnell College Foundation. Emmett also served on the Boards of numerous organizations such as the Natividad Medical Foundation, the Grower-Shipper Association of Central CA., Ag Against Hunger, Monterey County Farm Bureau and Monterey Bay Air Resources District. Among his happiest yearly rituals was taking his place as an announcer of the Colmo del Rodeo parade, an annual tradition he cherished all the more for sharing it side by side with his brothers. After retiring, he joined the Rotary Club of Corral de Tierra and the Haasis Hikers. He was also a member of the Pebble Beach Sports Car Club and the Native Sons of the Golden West

Emmett's innate ability to connect with people and his gentle and compassionate soul touched many. He lit up a room with his smile, enthusiasm and contagious laughter. He was a tenderhearted and delightful son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, husband and friend. Emmett will always be deeply loved, treasured, and remembered by his entire family. The void left by his passing is immeasurable, felt deeply by all whose lives he touched.

Emmett is preceded in death by his parents James and Joan Linder and his niece Quincey Linder. Emmett is survived by his wife Ana, son Matthew Linder (Cassy), daughter Catherine Dyk (Robert), his granddaughters Riley, Aubrey, Hannah and Abigail, brothers Tom (Patty) Linder, James (Vickie) Linder, Matt (Terry) Linder, Adam Linder, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Rosary Vigil: Sunday March 29, 2026, at 3:00pm - Struve and Laporte Mortuary 41 W. San Luis Street, Salinas, CA. 93901.

Funeral Mass: Monday March 30, 2026, at 11:00am - St Joseph's Church 15 Railroad Ave. Spreckels, CA, 93962

Celebration of Life: Saturday May 2, 2026, at 12:00pm - 1 Main Street Center, 1 Main Street, Salinas, CA 93901

Donations may be made to the following in Emmett's Memory:

Hartnell College Foundation - Emmett Linder Ag Scholarship Fund (https://hartnellfoundation.org/get-involved/donate-now/)

Elkhorn Slough Foundation (https://elkhornslough.org/donate/