San Rafael, CA

Barney Lindemann was an eternal optimist with a generous heart and good, solid soul. Always a gentleman, he could find something positive to say about even the most challenging circumstances or people. His moral compass didn't waiver, and his innate, genuine integrity was rare by today's standards.
Barney was a loving husband, dedicated father, playful grandfather, and loyal friend. On December 8, 2019, he passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife and daughters, after a long journey with Alzheimer's disease, which he shouldered with dignity and steadfast support from his family and loving team of caregivers.
Born in San Francisco, CA to Stella Josse' Lindemann and Barnard C. Lindemann, Sr, Barney graduated from Balboa High School and was drafted into the Army briefly near the end of World War II, stationed in La Mesa, Texas.
An expert mechanic with "car fanatic" embedded in his DNA, Barney spent his entire career in the automobile industry. In 1952 after operating his own service station, Barney began 39 years with British Motors of San Francisco. He served in several roles, his favorite as Service Manager. Barney took tremendous pride in tweaking and road-testing every vehicle to ensure perfect running order before returning it to the customer.
Barney took a shine to British Motors' congenial cashier, Elvira Regalia, whom he married in 1955. They spent 64 happy years together in San Rafael, raising two daughters -- Celeste Lindemann Chapman (Scott), and Annette Lindemann, both of Marin. Barney adored his grandchildren -- Bobby Chapman (Tamara) of Boston, MA, and Gina Chapman of San Anselmo -- and great grandbabies, Kaia and William.
Barney's "other child" was his beloved, award-winning 1956 Packard Caribbean convertible, which he maintained in stunning original condition for over 45 years. He was a long-time board member of Northern California Packards International. Barney's family made lifelong friends in the club and explored California on monthly caravan tours led by gleaming Packard automobiles.
Barney is survived by two sisters, Eileen Lentz of South Carolina and Louise Becker of Missouri, and his nieces and nephews. All who knew Barney will miss his kindness, his attitude of gratitude, and tenacious will to live. A Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Monte's Chapel of the Hills in San Anselmo. In lieu of flowers, please send commemorative donations to the Marin Center for Independent Living, or your favorite charity benefiting military veterans.

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Dec. 14 to Dec. 15, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Barnard Lindemann

Sponsored by Monte's Chapel Of The Hills.

6 Entries

Becky Arnett

December 21, 2019

Dear Annette,

I hold my hand over my heart and bow my head in respect remembering your Dad. You couldn't help stopping and watching him roll down the road in his Baby"! I send my love to you and family.

Becky

Ed Lydon

December 21, 2019

During a couple of summers while I was in college, Barney would pick me up and take me over the hill to my summer job at MMWD. I got to ride in whatever car he had test driven home the night before. Jaguars, Jensens, maybe a Rolls. Such a great way to commute.

He was a great guy and a great friend to my parents.

Lisa (Becker) Church

December 19, 2019

I love my uncle barney so much he was a kind gentle soul his smile lit up a room hes so strong and a fighter just like his sister my mother I look up to both of them. He loved life he enjoyed being outside and his cars he knew his cars and loved his cars. Barneys Packard was beautiful he loved that car so much I will miss you so much barney but God gained a great and beautiful soul you will forever be with me i can talk to you all the time I'll just look up and there you will be i love you so much love chris, lisa,caiden,landen church (becker)

Ann Geiger

December 18, 2019

Barney was truly one of a kind.A gentle, gracious and loving man all of his life.He seemed to lead with a quiet dignity that is tough to find these days in this "me first" world.We were blessed to have him here.

BUDDY LYDA

December 15, 2019

Barney, definitely was the real deal,a gentlemen through and through.He had a keen sense of humor always.We lost a rare breed, that in a lifetime one is fortunate to know.Blessings to the family.Rest easy my friend.

Beau Chapman

December 15, 2019

Barney was a most kind person with a smile of friendship on his face when he met you and during a conversation with you.
I was honored to call him a friend of mine.

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