Gary Edward Lindstrom

January 8, 1944 - January 10, 2022

Gary Lindstrom died Monday January 10, 2022, at his home in Salt Lake City UT.  Gary was born in Syracuse NY on January 8, 1944, the fourth child of Einar and Anita (Boudreau) Lindstrom. He attended Syracuse schools and enjoyed excelling in classes and in all his activities, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and becoming a ham radio operator with contacts throughout the U.S. and abroad. He attended Carnegie-Mellon University, where he earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in mathematics, and a Ph.D. in computer science, and was an enthusiastic member of the Bagpipe band.  He then taught at the University of Pittsburgh and married Sandra Kedzierski, before moving with Sandy in 1970 to Salt Lake City where he joined the faculty of the School of Computing at the University of Utah. He retired as Professor of Computer Science in July 2007, having made numerous contributions to his field and receiving the College of Engineering Outstanding Teaching Award, and serving as founding Editor in Chief of the International Journal of Parallel Programming.  Gary and Sandy enjoyed raising their beloved Old English Sheepdogs, pursuing Gary's hobby of restoring and driving British Sports Cars from the 1950s and '60s, partaking in and running river rafting expeditions, and traveling abroad, always seeking the best cuisine they could find. Gary cared for Sandy during her gradual decline due to Alzheimer's disease until her death in 2013.
 
Gary is survived by his sisters, Shirley Gelman of Palm Desert CA and Janice Lindstrom of Marquette MI, many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews, many dear friends, and his feline companion, Chloe.  Besides his parents and Sandy he was predeceased by his brother Philip, niece Ann Marie Clark, and brother-in-law Harry Gelman.  He will be remembered for his kindness and generosity, wit and love of fun, and constantly upbeat attitude. His family feel deep appreciation for the loving care and comfort given to Gary by his friends, and especially Diane and Jim “Pugs” Pivirotto, during the illness that preceded his death. 
 

A life so fully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered.

           A Celebration of Life in loving memory of

                    GARY EDWARD LINDSTROM

               January 8, 1944 – January 10, 2022

                 will be on Saturday, April 30, 2022

                           11:00 am to 2:00 pm

                                         at

                           Starks Funeral Parlor

                           3651 South 900 East

                            Salt Lake City, Utah

In Loving Memory

I am shocked and saddened, as I've known Gary since I joined Utah over 30 years ago. He is the kindest of souls, a terrific engineer (cars, programs, ...), had inimitable wit that will be sorely missed, and a downright humble and caring person. My entire family in India (parents, brothers) bonded with him, as Gary and Sandy graciously agreed to once stay with them during their India trip. It is a huge loss for many in my family now! But thinking of Gary, I can't help but smile like he always did.

Ganesh Gopalakrishnan

Salt Lake City, UT

Gary was a great and kind friend to many in Salt Lake City. Ever cheerful and upbeat, even when circumstances should suggest otherwise. Great colleague at the University of Utah; great having as a near neighbor in the Avenues; great friend on the squash court. I will miss this colleague of several decades.   - Thure Cerling

Thure Cerling

Salt Lake City, Ut

Gary, you were one of the best. Intelligent and charming. What you didn't know about LBCs, no one needed to know. You were kind and welcoming, with the finest wines always on hand. You made me laugh with your silly jokes and wild stories. I will miss you, but like to think of you, Sandy and the sheepdogs driving among the stars.

Hazel McKenna

Salt Lake City, UT

Always loved talking cars with Gary on all the great BMCU rides. Gary loved sharing his love for his two unique British cars, his Aston Martin and his Alvis. Here is talking to my wife Arlene about this DB5. We will miss having Gary on future rides.  

Steen & Arlene Sorensen

Provo, Ut

It was deverstating to learn of Gary's death - I had many a converation with him over the years - always about his Aston! I offer condolences on behalf of the membership of the Aston Martin Feltham Club. If I can help in anyway please do not hesitate to ask. Barrie RobinsonPresidentAston Martin Feltham ClubBarrie, Ontario

Barrie Robinson

Barrie, On

Bright Star! Thank you G-d, for putting him in our lives.

Allen Organick

Shreveport, LA

When everyone uses kind, funny, intelligent, and friend, you know that you've lost a bright light and a wonderful man.  I would add interesting and inclusive to that list of adjectives. He truly lived life fully.   Our hearts are reforming around life without Gary and he leaves a big hole.  He was a good friend and bellwether to so many of us.  The world is a better place because of Gary.  Our most sincere condolences to Shirley, Janice, his family, and many friends who feel his loss so acutely.    

Dave and Linda Beaufort

SLC, UT

It was very deverstating that Professor Lindstrom passed away. He is the best professor I ever had. I worked for Professor Lindstrom for two years as a research assistant. He was very kind and patient to me. I learned a lot from him.  --Xiaodong Chen

Xiaodong Chen

Vestavia, AL

A loss like this is felt by all who knew him. Gary was a very special, kind and unique person. He touched our hearts. Always quick with a smile, a silly new joke or an insightful comment, he will be greatly missed. Our sincere condolences.

Larry and Margaret Farrington

Salt Lake City, Ut

We were so sorry to hear of Gary's passing. He was a dear friend and colleague of my parents, as well as our mutual friends Betty and Elliott Organick. I've posted a couple of photos of him, helping Betty with her " first hot tub fill", back in the 80's... Sincere condolences to your entire family. 

Perrine Anderson

Salt Lake City, nan

In Loving Memory

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