Linda J. Palmquist, 78, of Concordia, KS died on February 1 at Leonardville Nursing Home in Leonardville, KS. Born Linda Jean Basso on December 10, 1942, in Kansas City, MO, she was the youngest child of Andrew and Olive “Maxine” Basso. Linda graduated from Westport High School in Kansas City, MO. She later received a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in Pre-Art Therapy from Kansas State University (1987) and a Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (1997) from Fort Hays State University.
On July 10, 1963, Linda married Richard Palmquist. They have two children Tim (Maureen) Palmquist of Portland, OR and Tammy (Kevin) Mitchell, of Kenilworth, IL. Linda farmed with Richard for 30 years in rural Concordia and they celebrated over 55 years of marriage. She was a 4-H leader, teaching photography and sewing, and active in The Baptist Church.

After raising two children, Linda returned to college two earn two degrees and began teaching graphic design at Cloud County Community College. In 1999, she became the Director/Curator of the Cloud Country Historical Museum, a role she held until she retired to spend more time with her grandchildren.

Linda was a talented artist, life-long learner, and she enjoyed experimenting with many creative endeavors. She was passionate about sharing art with others. Linda gave inspirational ‘chalk-talks’ at area churches where she would draw on an easel during her presentation, and use a special light to reveal a second hidden art sketch at the end of the program. She was known for creating spectacular birthday cakes for friends and family, as well as baking and decorating cut out sugar cookies at the holidays. Her cookie cutter collection grew to 500 at one point.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Linda is survived by her husband, Richard, her brother Ray (Yoko) Basso of Raytown, MO, her two children and their spouses, four grandchildren Brett (Chau) Palmquist of Westminster, CA, Chad Palmquist of Des Moines, IA, Megan Palmquist or Tigard, OR, and Lauren (Thanh) Orr, Gardner, KS; as well as eight great-grandchildren Rocco, Brett, Isabella, Rhys, Kade, Harrison, Charlie, and Abigail.
The family has chosen cremation. A private inurnment is planned. A Celebration of Remembrance will be held at a later date when it is safe to gather. Details will be forthcoming.

Memorial contributions may be given to The Baptist Church, Alzheimer’s Association, or Leonardville Nursing Home, in care of Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, PO Box 606, Concordia, KS 66901. For online condolences please visit, www.chaputbuoy.com.