Linda Jean Whipple was born to Milt and Ernestine Lee on January 4, 1954 in Chico, CA. She began her journey home July 29, 2015 following a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born the youngest of four children, she remained her Mama's baby until the day of her passing. She was a member of Job's Daughters and swam for the Chico Aqua Jets. Linda graduated from Chico High School in 1970. The majority of her adult life was spent in Mendocino County, in both Covelo and Ft. Bragg. Through her career in social work she found her purpose. Always one to root for the underdog, her compassion and dedication shone. She also took pride in advocating for her fellow coworkers as a Local 707 representative. She loved the outdoors: tending to her yard and flowers, camping, and fresh mountain air. Above all Linda loved her family. She and her "Honey", Bob, shared a kind of love thought only to be found in fairy tales. The love she had for her children and grandchildren was enduring and unconditional. It is through them and her extended family that Linda leaves behind a legacy of love and commitment. Her passing is mourned by all who knew her. She is preceded in death by her father, Milton Lee. She is survived by her husband, Bob Whipple; her son, Joshua (Pua) Pina; her two daughters, Katie (Zach Ray) Whipple and Kristin (Wes Tieken) Gonzales; seven grandchildren, and another on the way. Additionally, Linda is survived by her mother, Ernestine Lee; her brother, Ed Lannert; her sisters, Marilyn Rafferty, Barbara Kloth and Carole Mickleson; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. A viewing will begin at 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, August 4th at the Round Valley Rec Center. The Funeral Service will commence at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, August 5th at the same location. Graveside services will immediately follow at Headquarters Cemetery. Arrangements under the care and direction of Anker-Lucier Mortuary.
Published in Ukiah Daily Journal on Aug. 5, 2015