BJ “Bobbie Joe” Linger, 84, passed away May 21, 2017 at home. Lucky for all who loved him, he was born November 14, 1932 in Copley, WV to Orville and Hazel Linger. Courageously, at 17, BJ enlisted in the Army, being sent to paratrooper training. He was assigned to Korea during the Korean conflict engaging in numerous jumps during his service followed by multiple tours of duty at Ft Carson, CO back to Korea, on to Germany then retired at Ft Bliss, TX. Just before retirement, he trained to be an optical technician working in El Paso, TX, Albuquerque, NM and Cheyenne, WY. An opportunity to open a Royal Optical, led BJ and his family from Albuquerque to Cheyenne, WY. This lead to his opening of BJ Optical, followed by a long career with Laramie County School District #1 as a glazer, heavy equipment operator and after a short retirement, BJ drove school bus to keep him active and kids safe.

BJ is survived by David (Linda) Linger of Cape Canaveral, FL, Teri Powell of Kula, HI, Julie (Terence) Johnson of Houston, TX, Matt (Kimberly) Linger of Cheyenne, WY, Jill (Troy) Trevaskis of Piedmont, SD and Mark (Stacie) Linger of Cheyenne, WY; grandchildren Sean (Rachel) Powell, Ashley Manyou, Stacey Johnson, Delanie Fischer, Karson Fischer, Mason Linger, Kambria Trevaskis, Chase Linger, Marley Trevaskis, Kash Trevaskis as well as 4 great grandchildren. Through BJ’s adventures, not only was he an amazing Dad, Father-in-law and Papa, he created a wide circle of wonderful friends and will be missed by many, especially at T Joes. He valued his time spent, stories shared and that all-knowing sparkle in his eye the moment you knew he liked you. He’ll be missed by so many who took the time to know him. Take a moment this Memorial Day to appreciate the family given to you and hope that you can be as thankful as BJ was to know you.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Marcus Johnson.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be announced soon. Services are under the care of Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home.

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