James Raymond Linder
1974 ~ 2007
James Raymond Linder, devoted husband, loving father, loyal son, kindest brother, spiritual leader, true friend and hero to many. James' brilliant spirit flew home on August 20th, 2007 at the age of 33 while on duty doing what he loved. Although his time was short, he lived life to the fullest pursing his passions and inspiring those around him to follow their dreams. As a child James could be found creating his own Transformers from Lego's and assembling countless models and RC aircrafts. His path in life was set early on. He was an Engineer working in a lead position for Motion Control where he earned multiple patents. In addition to engineering, James pursued a life long passion and joined the National Guard to serve his country and live his dream of becoming a pilot. James bravely served a two year tour with the 211th battalion in Afghanistan as an Apache helicopter pilot and Chief Warrant Officer. Fondly known as "Da Brain" (his call sign) for his mastery of knowledge and skills, he became everyone's "go to" guy. "He was better than going to the operator's manual!", was a comment made by a fellow wingman. In the past year, James achieved another goal by becoming an Apache Instructor pilot sharing his passion and knowledge with others. Recently James also started his own company Approach Engineering, and within a short time made the cover of an international magazine for his design. James seemed to be an expert at anything he did or tried, whether it was building a scale helicopter from scratch, baking a cake with his boys, or even stitching a quilt with his wife. His wife and sons always came first. He would often work long hours into the night finishing projects after everyone had gone to bed so that he wouldn't encroach on any precious family time.
James married the love of his life and high school sweetheart Melinda Johnson in 1994. They were sealed for time and eternity in the Jordan River Temple. Their love for each other was profound and they were often found flirting on the couch and giggling together. They've spent the past 13 years raising three wonderful sons and sharing countless happy memories. James will be missed by many, especially by his wife, three sons and good friends, who he dedicated everyday to. He was the most loving, selfless, positive, patient father and husband you could know. We were so blessed to share this earth with him and walk along beside him in this life. He was an example to all and offered guidance in so many ways.
James is survived by his wife Melinda, sons Braxton age 11, Adam 9 and Ethan 6, father Raymond Linder, mother Anne Linder, sister Donna Parry, and brother Jason Linder. James, we can't wait until the day when we can all fly with you.
Services will be held on Friday, August 24th at Prairie 2nd Ward, West Jordan Park Stake, 7411 S. 4800 W. Times: 3:00 p.m. to call on family, 4:00 p.m. for Service.
Interment on Saturday, August 25th at 5:00 p.m. at the Parowan Cemetery in Parowan, UT
Please share condolences at www.serenicare.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made for the boys college funds at any Wells Fargo bank under the name "James R. Linder Memorial Fund".