Linda K. Wintermute

Linda K. Wintermute, 66, of Chaseley, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, in Kearney, Nebraska, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on November 7, 1959, in Greentop, Missouri, to Berdett Boice and Thelma Grob Boice (both predeceased), Linda lived a life filled with warmth, kindness, and deep connections to those she loved. Though not formally married, Linda shared a devoted partnership of 34 years with Sam Pearse, building a blended family that was the heart of her world. She is survived by Sam; her sons, John Wintermute and Laurie of Doniphan, Nebraska, and Merlin Wintermute and Hope of Grand Island, Nebraska; and her granddaughter Scarlett. Linda also cherished Sam's sons as her own: Aaron Pearse and his wife Jennifer Cross of Jamestown, North Dakota, and their children Miles and Alice; and Luke Pearse and his wife Brandi Pearse of Parker, Colorado, and their children Carter and Clara. To all her grandchildren, Linda was affectionately known as "Nana," a name that captured the special, nurturing bond she shared with each of them. Linda was deeply involved in her communities through the Fraternal Order of Eagles (FOE) Ladies Auxiliary, where she found great purpose in charitable work. She served as Past President of the Auxiliary in Kearney, Nebraska, and as Vice President in Harvey, North Dakota. She also held a position as a state officer in the North Dakota State Auxiliary organization. Linda particularly enjoyed her time with the Eagles because of their motto "People Helping People" and their strong commitment to charity at both national and local levels. The organization supports numerous causes, including Home on the Range—a therapeutic working ranch in western North Dakota that helps youth who have experienced trauma—as well as cancer research and support through various societies, and countless local charities that benefit communities in need. Linda had a lifelong love for dancing and was an active member of the Platte Valley Dancers. She served as Past President of the group and previously as a board member. She especially cherished their festive events, particularly the New Year's Eve Dance and the Halloween Dance with its costume contest—such joyful occasions filled with music, laughter, and dance community spirit. Linda and Sam made unforgettable memories together, competing in the costume contest and sharing in the fun. The group also gave her the exciting opportunity to travel with Sam and friends to world dance contests in Nashville, Tennessee, where they enjoyed being spectators and soaking up the passion and energy on a larger stage. In her personal life, Linda was an enthusiastic sports fan who cheered passionately for her favorite teams: the Nebraska Cornhuskers, North Dakota State University (NDSU) Bison, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears. She played softball in her earlier years and brought energy and fun to everything she did. Known affectionately by her nickname "Big Red," Linda loved cooking for family and friends, and she enjoyed playing cards, board games, and trivia games. She and Sam also traveled to Mexico at least twice a year, where she delighted in the beach and reconnecting with new friends they met there from the US and Canada. Linda was also a devoted pet owner who loved, loved, loved her animals. Her loyal dog Dakota was by her side through it all, right up to the end, and is now grieving the loss of his beloved companion as much as the family is. Professionally, Linda previously worked at the Bosselman Truck Stop in Elm Creek, Nebraska. She later became the kitchen manager for the Eagles Club in Kearney, where she took pride in organizing and preparing for large banquets, including special events like Mother's Day and New Year's celebrations. Linda worked hard, loved hard, and helped hard. If she was going to do something, she did it all the way—not halfway. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with her generosity and full-hearted spirit. A memorial service to celebrate Linda's life will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM at O'Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral Homes, 4115 Avenue N, Kearney, NE 68847. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Aseracare Hospice (Amedysis) or to the family for future designation. Condolences may be shared online at www.osrfh.com. Services are entrusted to O’Brien Straatmann Redinger Funeral and Cremation Services.

Linda K. Wintermute

November 7, 1959 - January 10, 2026