Linda Rae Rook

Linda Rae Rook, 68, of Boulder, Colorado, passed away on October 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of those she cherished. She was born on September 10, 1957, in Berwyn, Illinois, to Richard and Beverly {Teague} Rook.

Linda grew up in Villa Park, Illinois, where her love of nature and the outdoors first took root through countless camping, kayaking, fishing, and hiking trips with her family. Her childhood was full of laughter, curiosity, and the simple joy of discovery-a spirit she carried throughout her life.

As a young woman, Linda moved with her family to Boulder, Colorado, where she graduated from Fairview High School in 1975. While there, she was active in sports and developed the confidence and drive that would shape her future. She continued her education at Metropolitan State University of Denver, earning her Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice in 1980.

During college, Linda began working with Boulder County Community Justice Services, where her compassion and strength found their perfect match. She served as a Court Services Administrator in Juvenile Detention and later in Adult Detention, dedicating more than three decades to helping others and supporting those in need. Her work was not just a job-it was a calling, and she poured her heart into every role she held.

Linda retired in 2013, stepping away from public service to take on an even more personal mission-caring for her parents in their later years. Her devotion to family was unwavering, and she lovingly cared for her father until his passing in 2011 and for her mother until 2020. She also endured the loss of her sister Barbara in 2016, facing each loss with strength and grace.

Beyond her career and family care, Linda lived life with curiosity, creativity, and a zest for adventure. She loved traveling and exploring the beauty of Colorado and the mountains she called home. One of her favorite memories was taking a cruise to Alaska, marveling at the vastness of nature and its quiet beauty and she loved going to baseball games with family and friends.

Linda was gifted with a creative soul. She found joy in making jewelry, crafting stained glass, woodworking, and refurbishing antique furniture. She loved antiquing, especially when she discovered pieces that told a story or could be brought back to life with her careful touch. She was deeply connected to her family's history and took great pride in creating and preserving the Rook family tree, ensuring that the stories and connections of generations would live on.

Those who knew Linda remember her as generous of her time and money, sometimes feisty, adventurous, and fiercely genuine. She spoke her mind, stood for what she believed in, and lived by her words. She was giving of her time, talents, and heart-especially to causes she believed in, like animal rescue. Animals held a special place in Linda's heart, and her home was a refuge for many furry friends over the years. Among them were her beloved rescued cats, Evie-whose trust Linda patiently earned over six months-and Evie's kittens, Remy and Emmy. Emmy's rescue was especially meaningful, having survived in the wild for ten days before finding safety in Linda's care.

Linda's kindness, independence, and generosity left a lasting mark on everyone who knew her. She is survived by her sister, Mary Vaughters; nieces and nephews Warren Johnson, Madison Vaughters, and Kaylee Vaughters; great nieces Gwendolyn and Arya; and her cherished cats Evie, Remy, and Emmy. She was preceded in death by her parents Richard and Beverly Rook, her sister Barbara, and her niece Renee.

Linda's life was one of courage, compassion, and creativity-a beautiful reflection of her belief in living authentically, caring deeply, and finding beauty in all things. Her adventurous spirit and loving heart will forever be remembered and deeply missed.

Family asks that memorial donations be made in Linda's honor to Lifeline Animal Placement and Protection, Inc. (LAPP), 310 W. 45th Street No., Wichita, KS, 67204.