Linda Marie Chagollan

February 18, 1962 - September 9, 2017

Linda died peacefully on September 8, 2017 after an unexpected illness. She was surrounded by her family at Marian Hospital in Santa Maria. She was loved and she will be missed. Linda felt strong emotions about so many things in her life. While a young girl, she started her love of animals, especially dogs and birds. Starting from high school, until her death, she always had a dog as her constant companion. Her favorite two were Serene and Bandit, both Queensland Blue Heelers. She loved them for their agility, obedience and faithfulness. She would always be seen around town with her dog at her side. In addition to her Blue Heelers, she had Sharpei, Basset Hounds, Pit Bulls and mixed breeds. She loved birds as well, frequently owning cockatiels and parrots. In fact, Linda's first job was at Pets ‘N Pals. This was a dream job for her, caring for animals and their owners. Linda was born February 18, 1962, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Jim and Rita Benz. The family moved frequently during her childhood: Santa Maria as a toddler, Littleton, Colorado in preschool, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin in grade school. The family moved to Santa Barbara in 1973. Linda attended Dos Pueblos High School and Santa Barbara City College, where she took classes in book keeping and accounting. Linda married Peter Chagollan in 1983. They shared a love for the outdoors; hiking, biking and backpacking. Yosemite was a special place for them, even getting married at the chapel in the Valley and having their reception at the Ahwahnee Hotel. Linda and Peter moved to Buellton in 1987, where they established their home. 1988 brought them a beautiful daughter, Heidi Marie, who Linda loved deeply. Heidi was the "apple of her eye". Linda became involved with the Jonata PTA and the school Girl Scout troop, to spend more time with Heidi. Linda loved spending time outdoors, talking with family and friends, and listening to classic rock. During that time, she loved to call in to KTYD, and winning numerous great prizes, including a family trip to Disneyland. For over a decade, Linda had resided in Santa Maria. She has always loved reading and voraciously read mysteries and books about animals, particularly wolves. She loved to spend time talking with family and friends, maintaining phone contact, even when she could no longer visit in person. The family wishes to thank the ICU staff at Marian Hospital for their compassionate care during the last days of Linda's life. They provided support and care to the family as well. A celebration of Linda's life will be held on Saturday, September 23 at Trinity Lutheran Church, located at 909 N. La Cumbre Rd. Santa Barbara at 2:00pm.