MADISON - Herbert Lawrence Linder, age 90, passed away on April 4, 2024. He was born on February 7, 1934, in Sparta, WI, the first child to Walter H. and Maude E. (Larrabee) Linder of Tomah, WI.

Growing up in a farming and cranberry growing community, it didn’t take Herb long to begin pursuing his lifelong dream of becoming a devoted hunting and fishing enthusiast. He accumulated a game room/man cave in his basement that was second to none and even incorporated into furniture!

Herb was very sociable as a child and had many friends growing up. By the time he reached high school, he was a well-developed athlete and excelled in numerous sports – including football, boxing, basketball, and track – a real hometown hero!

After high school Herb was working in a gas station with a car up on a hoist when he cut a wire holding up a muffler, and the wire came down and stuck in his left eye. He lost sight in the eye, but it never hardened him. He joined the Army the following year and spent two years in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Herb started working as a painter for his uncle Bob, a profession at which he excelled, later going to work for the City of Madison where he remained until his retirement.

Herb’s life changed dramatically when his son Walter passed away. Fortunately, his significant other, Dolly Schmelzer, was able to provide him with love and support.

Herb is survived by his daughters, LaVaughn Stroud in Fort Worth, TX and Kimberly Dunbar in Fairview, OR; four grandchildren; several great grandchildren; sister, Sonja (James) Derkez; brother, Dennis (Miline) and a modest number of nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Walter; sister, Shirley (Marvin) Hart; and significant other, Dolly Schmelzer.

Herb was a good person and a loyal friend. May the Lord find room for him in His kingdom.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, April 11, 2024, from 4:00pm until 6:00pm at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N. Sherman Avenue

608-249-8257

Herbert Linder

February 07, 1934 - April 04, 2024

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