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360Coach Brandon Check-In 08/07/2025
Celebrating John Linnell
We’d like to take a moment to remember someone who made this world--and our community--a whole lot brighter: our friend and longtime advocate, John Linnell.
John wasn’t just a powerhouse in the world of COPD advocacy--he was the kind of person who could light up a room with a story, a quick joke, or that signature grin. Diagnosed with COPD in 2005, he took that challenge and turned it into a mission: to make sure no one living with this disease ever felt alone or unheard.
And he didn’t just show up--he showed out.
John served on boards like the U.S. COPD Coalition, EFFORTS, and Right2Breathe, was a State Captain for the COPD Foundation, worked on research teams from Johns Hopkins to the University of Illinois Chicago, and even reviewed research proposals for the Department of Defense. Wherever there was a seat at the table, John pulled up a chair and brought the patient voice with him.
But beyond the titles and accomplishments, John was a storyteller, a people person, and someone who just made things better. He could make you laugh when you needed it most, and somehow always knew the exact right thing to say.
He loved cooking, traveling, and spending time with his sweet wife, Barb. The two of them shared a beautiful bond that was easy to see and even easier to admire. And if John had the chance to be on a cruise? He was all in. So while we’re missing him deeply, we like to think he’s sailing off into the sunset--coffee in hand, cracking jokes, and making new friends on the most beautiful cruise of all.
John, thank you for everything you gave--to the community, to advocacy, and to all of us lucky enough to know you. We’ll carry your light forward and keep your memory close.
Bon voyage, friend. You are deeply missed and forever remembered!
Replies
I am so sorry to read about the loss of John Linnell. John was a strong advocate with a great sense of humor who fought for what he truly believed in. The COPDF communities will be forever grateful for all of his advocacy efforts. I did not have the opportunity to spend much time with him but I know that his spirit will be missed greatly. May he rest in peace.
R.I.P. John.....He will be missed ✌
Just seeing this news. This hurts my heart. John was such a warm, funny, caring man. He had an energy that was so empowering to others. He inspired so many in the community to not let COPD and bronchiectasis hold them back from doing the things they loved to do. If there was a will, John had a way. I'll miss you, John. Praying for your sweet wife as she navigates this loss. Keep the angels on their toes for us! 💕
Such a sweet man.
Here is information on John's services:
https://www.selandsfuneralhome.com/obituaries/john-linnell
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