Linda Ann Pape

Linda Pape was born in New York City to Yolande Dupriez and Henry Pape and was raised in Queens, New York. Known as “Susie” to her sister and friends from her youth, Linda displayed a strong sense of independence and self-awareness from a young age. At just 17, she embarked on an adventurous hitchhiking journey across the country, eventually ending up in San Francisco/Oakland, California. Linda was unafraid to voice her opinions, yet she carried a lighthearted spirit, was quick to laugh, and often found humor in everyday living.

After a period back in New York, Linda moved to Southern California, where she earned her Respiratory Therapist certification. She later obtained a BA in Health Science from Cal State University, Long Beach. Linda began her career at Saint Mary's Hospital in Long Beach, dedicating 15 years there before moving to the VA Long Beach, where she worked another 20 years until her retirement in 2021. Throughout her career, she formed lifelong friendships, sharing many cherished memories with her colleagues.

In 1980, Linda met Dennis, also known as "Buck”, at a mutual friend’s party. They moved in together and purchased a home in Lakewood in 1984. Linda and Buck married on April 29, 1989, and spent their lives together in that home until Linda passed away peacefully at home, with Buck and her sister Denise by her side.

Linda’s passions were many, but foremost among them were her love for animals, her creativity, and her love of swimming. She devoted herself to caring for animals, especially those in need, and always had at least two cats, sometimes more. Although she was partial to cats, she was also a happy rabbit owner in past years. Linda channeled her creativity into crafting and found joy in swimming, often at the YMCA or at Mother’s Beach in Long Beach. In her later years, Linda became an avid reader and enjoyed watching YouTube, especially as she tirelessly sought new approaches to treating her cancer.

Linda is survived by her husband of 43 years, Buck; her sister, Denise, and brother-in-law, Lee; her sister-in-law, Laurie, and husband, Bob; nieces Jamaica and Dinah; nephews Gabriel, and Cory and his wife, Rachel; and her cousin, J.P. Knaggs, and his wife, Shay, in Sarasota, Florida. She also leaves behind many dear lifelong friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Cancer Society or an animal shelter of your choice.