Gary R. Lindell
December 31, 1969 - December 31, 1969

"We were saddened to just learn of "Gare's" passing and sorry that we didn't know until recently. He was great to participate with our kids growing up together, and they all loved him. His wonderful and caring family are in our thoughts. Sincerely, Billye and Mike Drew"

"My thoughts and prayers go to the Lindell family. I met Gary during his time in evidence, and I must say there isn't a kinder individual on Gods green earth. Always cheerful and willing to help out when needed. Heaven just got a new cowboy and his name is Gary Lindell. "

"God knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain, He also knew in Heaven you would never hurt again. He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills hard to climb, so He closed your weary eyes and whispered "peace be thine"It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn't go alone, for part of us went with you the day God called you home."

"Margaret and family, It was a great shock to pick up the Woodinville Weekly and learn that Gary had passed. He was such a fun person! It seems as if it were only yesterday when we were all watching Kelly and Susie play sports together. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you."

"Gary's smile and personality will be missed! He's a kick in the pants: My thoughts and prayers are w/your family. Yvonne SPD Evidence."

"Margaret & family. We treasure our long lasting relationship. Our thought and favorable memories are with you forever. Lyndal & Rod"

"Margaret,Steve,Sue and Karen. Garys service was one of the most touching events I've ever witnessed. Alot of things brought tears to my eyes,like the video,speeches and mostly Garys picture that was up front and center. The video was very well done and the speeches, not knowing how you made it through it, were awesome. As I sat there listening and agreeing to all the wonderful things said about Gary, I thought to myself,"I wish we all could say these kind of things to our loved ones earlier". When I got home that night,I wanted to write a speech and make a video,as good as yours,for all my loved ones to see,hear and appreciate NOW! There is alot of memorys of how we are all proud of Gary and his life, but my most recent memory is his service and I know Gary was more proud of his family that day then ever before. All of you were outstanding. Gary will be greatly missed by all but your family will carry on his memory forever. Thank you."

"I remember how much Gary loved horses. We had a lot of bamboo and Gary would come up to gather some for his equine friends. He was a very gentle man and a true person of the Heart. We feel blessed to have known him. "

"Margaret, You have a very special and loving family. They will always be there for you. We also will miss Gary, for we loved him. He was what I call a really true friend. We would like to be there for you. If there is ANYTHING that we can do for you, please let us know. Our love and prayers go to you and your family."

"Dearest Margaret and Lindell family, We are saddened with the loss of Gary and our love and hugs go out to you all. I will cherish the fond memories of Gary walking into Union Sector roll call in his cowboy boots and grin. Of hearing him say "3U4" on the radio, the professional way he handled calls, and his "let it all roll off your back" attitude. His spirit and presence made our squad the closest I've ever seen it. The entire squad was endeared to him and so happy when he was able to go to Mounted patrol as he hoped. Even the folks at the donut shop loved him he gave them apple fritter business every morning at 3 am so much that they happily made a special apple fritter measuring two feet in diameter for his last roll call. I remember watching him trot down the Ave on Hercules during Apple Cup, park Herc in front of Starbucks, and get his cup of coffee. During the downtown parade, he proudly held my son with him in the saddle so I could get a picture. After his accident, I felt so honored when Margaret grabbed my arm to go into see him and wanted me to tell him encouraging words. I was honored to speak for him to the Retirement Board as we all we so inspired with his recovery and wanted so much for him to return to the job he loved. I visited him up at Evidence just to catch up with his family happenings, see his smile, and be inspired again by his spirit. When we saw him at the Range, he always asked about our Union sector family which he still felt apart of. In February, we were headed to the beach for the weekend and were at the K9 center to kennel the K9 dog we have. He was working hard as usual but dropped whatever he was doing to come over and hug my family. Gary knelt down with my five year old to ask how my son's seizure disorder was doing. He looked at my son with a look of a kindred spirit. I gave Gary a big hug. That would be the last time. Thank you for sharing him with us all. Most officers of his time on are distant, arrogant, and hard. Gary inspired a squad of young officers to come together by his mere presence, spirit, and attitude. Your service for him was wonderful, inspiring, and heartfelt. We all feel a part of your loss and wish you all lifelong memories of a wonderful human being. Thanks and God's blessings to you all.....The Clark family"

"I am sorry I was unable to attend the service, although I heard it was very nice and he was obviously loved by many. Please call if you need anything. You are in our hearts."

"Gary was truly the best Uncle anyone could ask for. I will miss his wit and his humor. Chelan will never be the same for me. But Gary would have wanted us to keep going, and so we will, as a family. Gary WILL NEVER be forgotten only remembered. Gary holds a special place in all of our hearts. Gary You Will Be missed.... "

"I am retired WSP. Worked with Gary several times when he was attached to auto theft. Went to yesterday's service. Now I know why we had to suffer through those awful meals at the Royal Fork restaurants for WSATI meetings. The food was and is terrible. Gary always ate as much or more than anyone and loved the food. We had a great deal of fun working common cases. For an Ingraham grad I was at Ballard, '64 he did okay. I visited him at the evidence room, SPD as often as I could when I was in town. I am now with the liquor board, enforcement, so I got down there quite a bit. He was never happy to have given up the road. He was not ready to retire. He was truly one of my best friends. I think he was a little crazy, like me. "

"My thoughts and prayers are with your family. We will all miss Gary!"

"To the Lindell family: Words alone cannot express the feeling of loss that comes with the news of Gary's passing. Gary was always glad to see someone he hadn't seen in a while, and always willing to help someone who needed help. One of the many things that I admired about Gary, was there was never a gray area with his decisions. He could brighten even the darkest room with his smile and laugh. I first met Gary when I began working the tow companies, in Seattle when he would inspect vin's, on the abandoned vehicles that I would later sell. Again there was never an area of hesitation in his decisions, either it was right or wrong. They say time heals all wounds, this is one wound that will definately take a long time to heal. Gary may be gone from this earth, but he will not soon be forgotten. Thank you for sharing Gary with us. Sincerely, Duane Love"

"Margaret & family, We just wanted to let you know what a wonderful tribute the service yesterday was to Gary. It was so obvious how much he was truly loved and respected not only by his wonderful family, but, by all of his brothers & sisters on SPD. It was a beautiful service, and the words spoken by your children and you were so touching. We were so sorry we couldn't stay for the reception, so we could have had a chance to give you a hug and talk to you a bit, but, Ron had to get back to work. The next few months are going to be very difficult as you adjust to not having Gary, so, once again, I want you to know I am here if you need me for anything. I know you have a lot of friends, so I'm sure you will be taken care of just fine, but, just in case you need another shoulder, mine is available. God bless you all. Donna"

"We just wanted to add how beautiful and touching Gary's memorial service was today. What a beautiful tribute to the wonderful person that Gary was. Steve and Karen, you did a wonderful job speaking from your heart about your Dad -- how lucky you are to have had such a strong, loving and fun Dad! Keep those memories close to your heart. To the SPD, we were truly touched at your presence. It was wonderful to have the Mounted Patrol there and the obvious 'family in blue' support. It was a very sad day, but we feel Gary's life was celebrated in a special way today and we just wanted to tell you what a nice service it was. The video was very special also...and wouldn't you know it, Gary was smiling in EVERY single picture! He loved life with a passion, so inspiring to us all, truly. Love, Andy and Kristin Smith"

"My prayers are with you and your family. As a Seattle Police Officer I never had the chance to meet OFC Lindell but have heard wonderfull things about him. Again my condolences and prayers. OFC M. Griesheimer SPD #6377"

"To the Lindell Family: My sincere sympathy to all of you. Gary was such a fun guy with a great smile for everyone. He will be missed but never forgotten. "

"My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary's family. What a wonderful man he was to his family and department. I will always remember Gary's smile. Gary taught me to ride horses 5 years ago. He always had kind things to say and called me "kid". I have always looked up to Gary and looked forward to going to the range so he could give me some good advice. Gary will be missed by me and many others. Everyone around me speaks so highly of Gary. He will not be forgotten. Scott "kid" Waltier, SPD SWAT."

"Gary you will be missed but never forgotten. I enjoyed working with you and your advice to new rookies back in the early 70's was always right on. I know that you will be always looking down upon us making sure that we all do our jobs correct as you had always done in the past. I will miss you as everyone else does."

"gary i met over 14 years ago when i worked at lincoln towing. he always had a kind word and a big smile. gary was so down to earth you could never get mad at him. i loved gary as my best friend. i'm so sorry i couldn't be there to say see you good buddy. love you verna"

"Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Keep your memories close to your heart. Ray Lamp"

"We have lived next to Gary and Margaret since 1986. We have been very fortunate to know and become friends with this Great Family. Gary was always there to lend a hand. We will remember fondly his western style whistling as he worked in his yard. His good natured light hearted personality and wit made our family very happy. As friends and neighbors we have shared many Great times. These times will be remembered often as we think about our good friend in years to come. Mark, Stephanie and Alexander Glass."

"Connie, our son Tim and I want to let you know how much we feel the loss of Gary. Living at the Range we saw Gary nearly every day and he always had a smile and kind words to say. He often took the time to come over and talk with my 4 year old Grandson Andrew and 3 year old Granddaughter Anna when they were playing in the front yard. His love of life and people as well as his dedication to the job will be memories we will all keep. One other thing I will always remember will be that he was the first Detective on the department to always wear his cowboy boots, jeans and a cowboy shirt on the job...that's the Gary I will fondly remember!"

"My condolences to the family of Gary. I met Gary when I came into SPD as a civilian 11 years ago. He always had a smile on his face, a great laugh, and you would always know it was Gary walking down the hall with his boots on because of the tap tap they would make. I don't think I have ever seen anyone with such an enthusiasm for people. He was truly a rare man. Gary will be greatly missed, and always remembered. God Bless, Stephanie Coleman "

"Gary was a fun loving guy with a wonderful sense of humor and an obvious love of people. You were a pleasure to know. You will be missed. "

"Margaret, Steve, Sue, and Karen, our deepest sympathy's go out to all of you. We are very sorry to hear of your loss and we are thinking of you. It has been a long time since the last time that we saw Gary, but the memories bring a smile to our faces. Soccer, camping, Buckhorn, Sue will understand all things Gary loved to do with family and friends. He will be missed. Hope you are all doing OK. We send our thoughts and prayers."

"I will miss Gary and his warm smile, here at SPD....and to Gary's wife, kids and family.....you are in my prayers."

"I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to the family of Det. Gary Lindell. I will truly miss him. My earliest and fondest memories of Gary are from his days in the Auto Theft unit. In Data Center, whenever I was scheduled the task of entering stolen vehicles and there was a problem, Gary was the one to call. He always knew where or whom to call to get the information that we needed. "

"What a guy! My heart is broken. He will be missed by many. But never forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you Margaret, Steve, Susanne, Sue and Karen. We were all cheated in losing him so soon but I know he will live on in our hearts and with many happy memories Erika and Dana will never forget the wonderful Grandpa they had."

"Although I did not know Mr. Gary R. Lindell myself, I have had the pleasure of knowing his daughter Karen. I can see that he raised a beautiful and amazing person, a reflection most likely of himself. My condolences go out to Karen and the rest of the family and friends whose lives were touched by Gary Lindell"

" My condolences to Gary's family. I knew Gary during my 34 years in the towing industry begining with Cordes towing, & later at Lincoln towing. Gary, you were a friend to all who knew you & you will be greatly missed. I'll miss our chats about motorcycles & horses. You made my day a little brighter each time you came. God bless. "

"The Evergreen Head Injury and Rehabilitation Center send their condolences to the Lindell family. Gary was without a doubt one of our favorite clients and we were so saddened to hear about his passing. I will be at the memorial service to represent the Center. We adored working with Gary and we very much loved having Margaret around to talk to. We were honored to work with such a fabulous man. The laughter and his great smile were unforgettable. He will be missed. Love ya Gary."

"Margaret, We were saddened to hear about Gary... As you know, John and I have wonderful memories of our Caribbean cruise in 2000 -with you, Gary and Judy and CJ. Those memories are all the more sweeter now - of Gary walking down the hall popping balloonsand Gary eating and Gary saying "judas priest!" when we got the best of him and Gary eating... Our favorite photo of Gary is the one of him, in his white dinner jacket- striking his best "saturday night fever" pose. We've only known you both for a short time - but long enough to realize what an incredibly special relationship the two of you shared. We sincerely hope the warmest, fondest and even the funniest memories, help you through this difficult time. /pam ~"

"I can still remember when I first became the Auto Theft Sergeant at SPD in 1998. There were some great stories I heard about some of the old time detectives. Gary was always remembered with loving thoughts. One day he dropped by the office to say hi to some old friends. Gary was so thrilled to be apart of horse patrol, but also missed his friends in Auto Theft. To Gary I became an instant part of the flock, one of the squad. It was immediate acceptance. My greatest memory is his return to work after his accident. He was so thrilled to be back with all of us. And then the day he heard I had cancer. Gary immediately made his way to the Auto Theft office, and told me I was in his thoughts. That's just the kind of man he was, if you were in "blue" you were one of his brothers and sisters on SPD. I will miss his charming smile, good heart...and those boots!!"

"Margaret, We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Gary was one of God's special ones. He brought joy and peace to those he met! You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. "

"Gary will be missed. He was always polite and helpful. I will miss the service but will have food ready at the North Precinct for you all. We are sorry and share your loss. Harriet Benjamin & the BAcon Bowl Assoc."

"To the family and friends of Gary Lindell- I will best remember Gary during that time in our life when we attended Ingraham High School. What I remember about him was that he was always light hearted and quick with a joke. A few words from Gary could improve the outlook on any day. Reading some of the other entries it sounds as if he carried that theme throughout the rest of his life, and because of that, I am sure that the world was a better place, just because he was there. May he rest in peace. Jon Brouelette"

"We are deeply saddened of the loss of such a special spirit. We have known Gary through Steve and Andy's long time friendship and we have the nicest memories of knowing Gary. Gary was one of the nicest people I've ever met. Kind, funny...he enjoyed life always with a smile on his face. I remember coming to the Lindell family reunion in Lake Chelan years ago and how Gary had more energy than most of us and the kids, by leading a huge water gun fight in the park...I've never laughed so hard. He was a great father and husband and grandfather. Another special memory was attending his special birthday party two years ago, after his accident. We were so happy to see him recover so well and it was such a special day he shared with his family and friends in the summer sunshine at your home. Gary called it his "double nickel" birthday! I thought that was just so cute! I remember him playing croquet with Andy and Steve that day, while soaking up the sun, playing with his darling grandaughters, Erika and Dana and barbecuing up some mean hot dogs and hamburgers for us all and the great conversation we always had with him. Gary will not be forgotten. His light will shine on. May God bless you all at this difficult time. With our love and deepest sympathy, Andy and Kristin Smith"

"I was so sorry to hear of Gary's death. I was a friend of his Mom, Gladys. We worked together at the Bon and I also worked with Steve and Susanne. I still think about Gladys frequently and remember how kind Gary was to me when he called to tell me she had died. May it help to know that others understand and care and are remembering you with special thoughts. Sincerely, Sandy Dean"

"I have great memories of Gary. We went through academy class 56 together. Gary came out number one. He always had that grin on his face. I am so sorry that he is gone."

"Gary and I worked together in the Auto Theft Unit of the Seattle P.D. I was his supervisor. Gary was a pleasure to work with and I always looked forward to seeing him each day. His smiling face and pleasant manner and excellent work made him an outstanding police detective. Gary was a family man. He had animals and chickens on his place.My children still remember the various colored eggs that Gary would bring to work and give to us when he had too many to use. Margaret and family, we loved Gary too and grieve with you."

"1979....it seems like only yesterday when Columbia Towing became a City of Seattle Towing & Storage Contractor. My folks, Jim & Dora Jean Crenna, owned the company and Gary was the Auto Theft Detective who worked with the tow contractors. Gary was always available to help whenever we called. If we couldn't find a vin # on a car, he'd tell us where to look or come and search himself. If the weather was bad and our lots were muddy, he was known to change from his leather cowboy boots to his rubber milking boots. Whatever it took to get the job done... he never minded. If we had trouble obtaining registered owner information from a license plate #, he'd always say "forget the plate, use the vin #, the plate can go from one car to another", he was right!!! Our daughter, Dianna, was born in 1986 and returned to work with me when she was a week old. Gary would stop by to take care of whatever police work he had, then he'd grab a cup of coffee and spend few minutes playing with her. He always had time for Dianna and Dianna has always had a special spot in her heart for Gary, and why not??? He was not only "Our" Auto Theft Detective, he was "Our" friend. He was the guy who always wore jeans, a western shirt and cowboy boots.... in fact, one Seafair he was on patrol in full uniform and I didn't recognize him!!! He was the guy who always wore a smile, his laughter was infectious and he brought a bit of sunshine with him each time he stopped by. He has left lasting memories with each of us. He was one of the best and will be missed by everyone. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Margaret and Gary's entire family. Malcolm, Jackie & Dianna Currie ~ Jim & Dora Jean Crenna and the entire staff of Columbia Towing"

"I HAVE KNOWN GARY FOR THE 22 YEARS I'VE BEEN WITH SPD. HE IS ONE OF THE BEST PERSONS I HAVE EVER MET AND HAD THE PLEASURE TO WORK WITH. ALWAYS A SMILE AND A FRIENDLY GREETING WHEN I SAW HIM. THEY DON'T COME ANY BETTER. "

"It is with great sorrow to hear about Gary passing.He has been a brother in blue for my 29 years with SPD.Like others have said Gary was one of the good guys and will be sadly missed.My prayers and thoughts are for the family and ,of course, Gary.....Jack Meduna,SPD Patrol 432"

"Margaret & family, Ron & I were so saddened to hear of Gary's death. He & Ron worked together for many years in Auto Theft, and Gary was always the "life of the party" at all the squad get togethers. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was always so dedicated to his job and you knew, just from being around him, how much he loved his work. But, above all, listening to him talk about his children and grandchildren, you knew without a doubt, that his family came first. We know the pain of loss is great, and will be for some time, but, keep the good memories close at hand and the pain will fade with the comfort of those memories. May God be with each of you in this time of sadness so that His strength and love will see you through. Donna & Ron"

"To Karen and family, Trust in God's promises, hold tight to His hand, and He will never let you go. Believe, love and embrace. God bless you all, you are in my prayers. Karena "

"Dear Margaret & Family, I am so sorry to hear of the sudden loss of Gary. I had the pleasure of working with Gary as his physical therapist at Evergreen HIRE. Gary could make me laugh and he enjoyed life. He made such an incredible recovery. He talked about how much he loved his family and was very proud of everyone. I enjoyed it when Gary would stop by to visit his old therapists and he always gave me a wonderful hug. The last time he stopped by was several weeks ago. I heard his voice in the hall. I was working with another patient and I had to excuse myself so I could run out and make sure that I said hello to him and got my hug. May God Bless you. "

"We were Police Cadets together over 30 years ago. Gary was one of the good ones."

"To our dear friend Margaret..Steve,Sue,Karen and family. We knew Gary for 37 plus years..we always think of him with a smile,and warm memories.From the years when the four of us "hung out" together,to the recent times that we four got together..Through the hard times,through the good times... Gary was one in a million.We'll always miss his humor,his laughter,and his way of enjoying life.We were so fortunate to have called him "friend"..Gary was also very blessed to have a wonderful,loving wife like Margaret, and a wonderful family..he loved them very much.Our deepest sympathy to all of you for your loss of a wonderful man.."

"To our dear friend Margaret..Steve,Sue,Karen and family. We knew Gary for 37 plus years..we always think of him with a smile,and warm memories.From the years when the four of us "hung out" together,to the recent times that we four got together..Through the hard times,through the good times... Gary was one in a million.We'll always miss his humor,his laughter,and his way of enjoying life.We were so fortunate to have called him "friend"..Gary was also very blessed to have a wonderful,loving wife like Margaret, and a wonderful family..he loved them very much.Our deepest sympathy to all of you for your loss of a wonderful man.."

"I worked with Gary years ago & remember him as a hard working fun loving guy. Our deepest condolences to his family. "

"To Karen and your family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I can't imagine how hard this must be. I pray that God will be guiding you and your family. God bless, Kebra"

"We are very sorry to hear of the families loss. With love pride from your brother and sister officers. Rodger & Pam Cool#14, Puyallup Police Department. "

"Love and condolences to the entire Lindell Family and their partners."

"I was sad to learn of Gary's loss, particularly since he had overcome so much after his fall and head injury. I didn't know Gary well, but as a reserve officer, chatted with him while is he was in the Auto Theft unit, and I was volunteering in Accident Investigations, across the hall. More recently, I saw him regularly at firearms qualifications. His recovery from his fall was nothing short of miraculous, and it was great to see him doing so well. He was always smiling, always friendly, and will always be missed. "

"Margaret, Steve, Karen & Sue Our deepest sympathies from my family to you. I have memories of Gary from when I was a kid, "judas priest", he'd say, for most everything we did. Not until I grew and had kids of my own, could I appreciate the love and understanding of a parent's tone. Last time I saw him coming up on his bike, with his unforgetable laugh just as we like. Up the driveway he came with a smile. He jumped off his bike, rolled in the grass, and laid there a while. "Get over here kid and help me up",. I gave him my hand and pulled with a tug, when he was on his feet I gave him a great big hug. Your husband and father was a wonderful man, who touched many lives, as only someone very special can. We will miss him always, he will live forever in our hearts. He's the only man who always won with a triple bullseye at darts!"