Clifford James Linster

Obituary

Clifford James Linster

August 12, 1943- June 10, 2026

Clifford James Linster, 82, passed away at his home in Ten Sleep, Wyoming on June 10, 2026.

He was born on August 12, 1943 in Hamilton, Montana to Clarence J. and Leona (Lennon) Linster.

Cliff grew up in Hamilton, MT and graduated from Corvallis. He joined the Navy and toured the Mediterranean and later had a front row seat for the Cuban Missile Crisis from the William Rush. He married Sandra Jean Shook on November 16, 1973. The two were blessed with four children, Brenda, Clifford, Robert and Wesley and later raised Matt, Luke, and Megan Shook.

Cliff and Sandy raised their children in Stevensville, MT. They spent many years searching for fossils as a family, which lead to Cliff's early retirement from Pumco road construction. They moved up to the Black Leaf near the Bob Marshall front around 2000 and in 2017 moved to Ten Sleep, WY to be closer to family.

Cliff was an avid woodworker, fossil hunter and big game hunter, but never a fisherman. He was always up for exploring somewhere new and he loved nature, be it the mountains, badlands, or watching a grizzly bear. He also wouldn't pass up an opportunity to chase an elk. His early retirement led to more time to roam the hills and badlands with his wife, looking for treasures where he was truly happiest. He lived a unique life filled with adventures and always had a story for every occasion. For over 52 years his love and devotion to his wife Sandy was undeniable and unwavering. It was obvious to those around him that every move and decision he made in their life was for her; he was loving, patient and kind to the end.

Cliff was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Betty Buhler, Lonna Mohr and Francis Mallory.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandy; daughter, Brenda Linster of Houston, Texas; sons, Clifford "Cliff" Linster of Billings, Montana, Robert "Bob" (Blythe) Linster of Saranac Lake, New York and Wesley "Wes" (Leah) Linster of Ten Sleep, Wyoming; grandchildren: Sophie, Amelia "Mimi", Boone, Hadden, Faye, and Oscar

At this time no formal services are planned. Online condolences may be made at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.