Michael F Linker

He was preceded in death by his forever love of 49-years, Wanda (d. 2019). He was born in Cabarrus County, North Carolina on August 10, 1946, to George and Mildred Linker. After his graduation from Concord High School, Mike enlisted as an Airman in the U.S. Air Force. He honorably served with the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand during the Vietnam War. During his service, he was promoted three times and received the following honors: National Defense Service Medal for serving during a period that was declared as a national emergency; Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars; Vietnam Campaign Medal Ribbon; Air Force Good Conduct Medal for demonstrating exemplary conduct, fidelity, and efficiency as well as his commitment to the Air Force’s core values; the Remote Combat Effects Campaign Medal; Outstanding Unit Award Ribbon; two time recipient of the Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon; Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon; Air Force Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award; and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

In 1979, Mike became a Reserve Deputy for the Cullman County Sheriff’s Department in Cullman, Alabama where he proudly served and protected the citizens of Cullman County. He also worked for Luyben & Boike Appliances in Cullman for 24-years as an appliance delivery and service man, prior to relocating with Wanda to Montgomery, Alabama. At that time, he transitioned to appliance sales. July 18, 2011, Mike was awarded the Alabama Poultry & Egg Association’s Presidential Award for his contributions and support to AP&EA staff member and wife, Wanda, and the industry for 36-years.

Survivors include his two devoted daughters, Leslie Linker Hooks of Pike Road and Lindsey Linker Baker (Jared) of Clanton; three granddaughters, Chelsea Hooks Boston (Anthony) of Montgomery, Riley Hooks of Pike Road, and Kira Baker of Clanton; two grandsons, Michael and Sean Baker of Clanton; two great granddaughters, Baylor and Parker Kate of Montgomery; one great grandson, Hunter of Montgomery; one sister, Lindsey Beaver of Rock Hill, South Carolina; one brother-in-law, Donald L. Hunter (Linda) of Cullman; one sister-in-law, Kathy Byrd (Freddie) of Cullman; four nieces, six nephews and many other family and friends.

Mike, more affectionately known as Grandaddy, adored all his girls, with Baylor and Parker Kate truly being the light of his life. Sweet Hunter, although their time together was short, Grandaddy loved that he was named after Granna. Grandaddy had a special relationship with each of his grandchildren. Chelsea, being the first born, had him completely wrapped around her finger; there was nothing he wouldn’t have done for her. Chelsea was always spending the night with her grandparents, sometimes, weeks at a time. Riley, nicknamed RJ or Riley Jo by Grandaddy, shared a special bond with him and was always at his beck and call; he was even her first haircut. Michael, first born grandson, was his namesake, seeing a piece of himself carried forward. Sean and Grandaddy were kindred spirits and even shared a birthday. He found immense joy in celebrating their special day together. And last, but certainly not least, his youngest granddaughter, Kira with whom he shared a love of silly jokes, warm hugs, and chocolate (and would sometimes share his Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, too).

A Celebration of Life with military honors for Michael Linker will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Alabama Heritage Funeral Home in Montgomery, Alabama. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 PM with services immediately following. Please wear your favorite shade of purple.