Le Roy Sherwood Linder of Clinton passed into eternal rest in the morning hours of Thursday, July 19, 2018 at home. He was 94 years old. Le Roy was born in Warren, PA, son of Thomas Linder and Emma (Sartorti) Linder on March 17, 1924. Growing up in Ridgeway, PA, Le Roy was an avid hunter and fisherman. When World War II broke out, he was only 17 and told he would have to wait until June of 1942 to enlist in the army. He spent over a year and a half in the U.S. training as a tank driver in the 4th Armored Division 8th Tank Battalion to be later led by General Patton. Le Roy was sent to Europe for where he served in Normandy, northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland, and central Europe. For his service, Le Roy received 5 Bronze Stars, Distinguished Unit Badge, Good Conduct Medal, and his first Purple Heart.
Le Roy was gone from home for 3 years and 5 months. After his discharge, he returned home to Ridgeway, where he married, had a son, and returned to normal life for a time. Then Korea took him back to war. Upon being recalled to action, now a Sergeant First Class, Linder was assigned to Tank Company 31st Infantry Regiment as a tank commander. After another 14 months of active duty, where he added the Korean Service Medal, three more Bronze Stars ,and his second Purple Heart to his honors and recognition. He was headed home at the end of 1951 to a new beginning. Arriving home, Le Roy again returned to a normal life. A few years later he met what was to be his wife of 60 years, Pearl. They were married in January 1958 and shortly thereafter moved to CT.
Shortly after arriving in CT, Le Roy found himself adopting his sister-in-laws three children and raising them. He began his career working for the CT State Police about the same time. First as a cook in the Troop F (Westbrook) Canteen, and upon the closure of the Canteen he worked the rest of his 28 years in the Maintenance Division as a carpenter. Le Roy was also a member of the Elks, VFW, and for over 50 years a member of the Masons and a past Patron. Upon retirement, he enjoyed being with family, especially his grand children and great grand children. Le Roy remained active and attended many State Police picnics, Elks club events, and tending the grill at family picnics. He enjoyed time fishing and swimming in the lake, taking care of the yard, and helping out anyone, family or friend, with any projects that needed a hand. Le Roy always had a smile on his face, even when mowing the yard or making a dump run at the age of 90. Le Roy is survived by his brother Paul, his son, David Malin of PA, two daughters, Leigh (and Lloyd) Williams of CT, and Kathy (and Dan) Wintrode of IN; six grand children Le Roy (and Karen), Miranda, Jeannie, Danny (and Danielle), Heidi, and Shaun; six great grand children Melissa, Laura, Marjorie, Henry, Ryan, and Ilsa, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by wife Pearl and son Raymond, brothers Leonard, Edward and Walter, and sisters Lena and Lois.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18