In Memory of Mark Linder

We are saddened to learn of the passing of Mark Linder, who died on September 14, 2026, at the age of 80. Mark was a longtime local government professional whose career reflected a deep commitment to public service, to building community, and to developing the next generation of public servants.

Mark served in local government for more than three decades. His roles included Assistant General Manager of the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District and Assistant Town Manager in Los Gatos. In San José, where he served from 1995 to 2008, he was Deputy City Manager, Director of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services, and Assistant City Manager. He then served as Director of Parks and Recreation in Cupertino and as City Manager of Campbell from 2013 until his retirement in 2016.

Mark held a bachelor’s degree from Macalester College and a Master of Public Administration from San José State University. He was a 2003 graduate of the Berkeley Executive Seminar, the forerunner of today’s Local Governance Summer Institute at Stanford.

Mark considered community building the “highest form of community service.” He never accepted that things had to stay the same, and he measured progress by a simple test: whether it made people’s lives better.

Mark was also a mentor to many. He made time for people, especially those early in their careers, and he encouraged young people to consider public service.

Retirement did not end his service. About five years after leaving Campbell, Mark returned as an interim manager, serving the Town of Windsor, the City of Sonoma, and, most recently, the Town of Portola Valley from January to July 2025. Each was facing a period of transition, and each needed experience and stability. Windsor’s mayor credited him with accomplishing what he told the council he would do. In Portola Valley, he helped the town make progress on its housing element and budget.

When he arrived in Windsor, Mark described his goal as providing a “steady hand on the tiller.” Colleagues in Portola Valley remember him the same way, as a stabilizing force.

Those who knew Mark remember his smile, his easygoing nature, and the way he made people feel valued. He called and texted colleagues to check in, simply because he cared. He greeted people warmly and engaged fully. Above all, Mark showed up.

Mark’s passing is a loss to the local government community. His legacy can be found in the communities he served, the organizations he led, and the many public servants he encouraged along the way.

We extend our deepest condolences to Mark’s wife, Mary, his four younger brothers and the rest of his family, his friends, and his former colleagues.

Mark often told people, “Thank you for being you.” We are grateful for his service, and we say the same to him. Mark Linder will be missed.

Please contact Cal-ICMA if you would like to send a card. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mark’s memory may be made to COPA or CASA of Santa Cruz County.