Linda Jean "Aunt Big Bird, Glinda, Gaga" Kaup

Linda Jean (Arend) Kaup, born on February 13, 1947, entered into eternal rest surrounded by the love of her family on October 13, 2025. She was the cherished daughter of Duane and Edna (Hattenbach) Arend.

Linda lived a life grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. She shared 37 years of marriage with her late husband, Richard Kaup, with whom she built a home filled with warmth and strength. Together, they raised two daughters who were her greatest pride - Rikki (Mike) Jones and Robyn Kaup - who will forever carry her legacy in their hearts and lives.

She is reunited in heaven with her brother, Timothy Arend, and her beloved husband, Richard.

Linda is survived by her daughters; her sister, Carol (Ken) Watson; and the youngest brother she lovingly referred to as her "graduation present," Jon (Jill) Arend. She was also a proud aunt to her nieces and nephews, each of whom she absolutely adored and is also lovingly remembered by her bonus grandchildren, whom she cherished as her own, Sam Bingham, Sara, Ryan, and Katy Peterson.

A talented cook and baker, Linda was known for filling kitchens and hearts with warmth. Whether preparing family meals or baking cookies and brownies, she expressed her love through every delicious creation. She was her daughters' biggest fan - attending every event, supporting in any capacity she could, or showing up with a fresh batch of treats in hand.

She graduated from Buchanan High School in 1965 and though she grew up a Buchanan Buck, her heart and soul became full of Viking pride. She particularly loved the track and field program and held a deep affection for its coaches and athletes, whom she supported with boundless enthusiasm.

Linda will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family - a devotion reflected in the many nicknames bestowed upon her over the years, including "Aunt Big Bird", "Glinda" and "Gaga." Her home was a place of open doors and open arms, where almost anyone was welcomed and made to feel like family. She loved her family and friends with fierce passion.

Strong in both conviction and kindness, Linda stood firmly for what she believed was right while holding others - and herself - to a standard of integrity.

Following her wishes, Linda was cremated. A celebration of life for both family and friends will take place at Michiana Christian Embassy located at 1922 E. Main Street in Niles on Saturday, October 25th from 2-5 pm. Everyone is welcome to come celebrate Linda, share a meal and their memories. Arrangements have been entrusted to Swem Chapel, Buchanan.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Linda's memory to the Niles Track and Field program - a tribute to the athletes and community she loved so deeply.

Linda touched countless lives with her generosity, warmth, and humor. Her presence will be deeply missed, and her memory cherished always.