Lindell 'Lin' Edmonds Jr., 79

On Dec. 31, 2020, we said goodbye to Lindell “Lin” Edmonds Jr. He was 79 years old.

After 40 years of plowing snow and doing auto body work in the Coeur d’Alene and Hayden area, many people came to know Lin (most loved him anyway, haha). Believe it or not, his heart was bigger than his orneriness. He made many sacrifices for his children and for his faith. He often helped out those who were down on their luck, even when he was often in worse shape.

Lin loved the lake. He spent as much time as he could on it. This earned him the nickname "Mayor of the Sandbar" by many Hayden Lake friends. He passed this passion of the water on to those who survive him — his children Troy, Linette, Teri, Christi and Lindell III. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and four (+ 1 in the oven) great-grandchildren. His independent behavior has also been passed down to each and every one of them.

If you knew Lin, then you knew his routine; driving with Maddy (his dog, aka the favorite child), going to breakfast, lunch and dinner and always leaving with leftovers for Maddy. They were never very far apart. He often drove her around just so she could see her friends. You know who you all are. She had her very own spot in the shop to supervise all body work, which he did until the very end. He also passed along his trade work knowledge to most of his children.

He always loved the ladies, young, old, it didn't matter; he always had to make them smile. He broke a few hearts and had his broken a few times also, but was always quick with a smile and something flirty to say to a woman.

Most importantly, Lin led many people to their faith. He didn't have much in this world, but he left many with life lessons learned, friendship, love, and for some — heartbreak from his passing.

Grumpy, cantankerous, opinionated, teacher, flirt, jokester, grandpa, and dad — these are some words that describe him. We know that each of you have your own stories and memories with him. We would be very honored to hear them at his potluck celebration of life in a relaxed environment from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021, in the activity center Silver Valley Worship Center, 307 Main St., Smelterville, ID 83868.

Please visit Lin’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.