Linda Jean Grabowski

Linda Jean Grabowski, age 89, received her promotion to Heaven on January 7, 2026. She was born April 26, 1936 in LaGrange, Indiana to her parents, Edward and Carol (Ritter) Carpenter. She attended Lima Township School, in Howe, Indiana and graduated in 1954. Linda married the late John O. Niggli in 1956 and together they welcomed four children: John Otto II, Tom, Ron and Carol. In the early years of their marriage, John's work in the mobile home industry led the family to live in several states: Michigan, Indiana, Missouri, and Texas before they ultimately settled in Tulare, California in 1970. Following their divorce in 1972, Linda remained in Tulare and began what would become a 28-year career in banking, starting with Security Pacific National Bank and later retiring from Union Bank as Operations Manager. In 1978 Linda married Leonard "Len" Grabowski, and together they formed a large blended family of ten children. Raised Methodist, Linda later converted to Catholicism after marrying Len, and they faithfully attended St. Aloysius Catholic Church. The Grabowski's owned and operated Golden Valley Stamps and Awards in downtown Tulare. Linda was instrumental in the success of their business. In addition to building a long-standing community staple together, the pair participated in many events benefiting T.I.P. (Tulare Improvement Program) and dedicated several years to volunteering with the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Linda shared Len's dream of traveling the country by motor home. After retiring in 2000, the two were able to enjoy several memorable trips together despite Len's battle with cancer. Our mom was so strong and courageous that she didn't hesitate to drive their motor home all the way to Alaska and back home! That same strength and courage was demonstrated in the years she faithfully supported and cared for her husband of 26 years. After Leonard's passing in 2004, Linda continued, even escalated, her volunteer work, donating her time and talent to the Tulare Senior Center, Salvation Army, World Ag Expo, Antique Farm Show, Samaritan Center and Cancer Society. In 2012 she was deservingly recognized as "Woman of the Year" at the Tulare Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet. Linda enjoyed spending time with her friends in the Red Hat Society and Tulare Republican Women groups. She was a true patriot and loved the American flag. She was someone you could confide in and know your secrets were safe. She was a woman of high standards and strong discipline, a trait that inspired others to be their best. She wasn't one to sugarcoat the truth and had a great sense of humor. Our mom quietly endured her storms, and her ability to keep moving forward is a measure of her character. With all the heartaches, ups and downs of life, she never hesitated to say, "I've lived a good life!" She was a devoted mother and grandmother who found her greatest joy in supporting and serving her family and community. Her love and presence left a lasting imprint on every life she touched. We will forever miss gathering in her kitchen to enjoy her hot sauce, barbecue sauce, carrot cake, zucchini bread and Christmas lasagna - among many other special things. Linda is survived by: children, Tom Niggli (Pam) and Carol Gregory (Manuel); step-children, Elizabeth Licursi, Mark Grabowski (Robbin), Peggy Oaks, Robert Grabowski (Lynn), Julie Boyer and Annette Grabowski (Doug); step-daughter-in-law, Tabby Grabowski; grandchildren, Rachel Niggli, John Niggli (Brooke), Jenna Colburn (Will), Erik Gregory (Mikella), and Jared Gregory; step-grandchildren, Samuel Licursi (Justine), Isabella Licursi, Emily Medcalf (Marco), Cody Grabowski (Brenda), Casey Grabowski, Eddie Arant (Susie), Teresa Porter (Riley), Montanna Higdon (Chris), Chelsea Langford (Erin), Megan Boyer (Al), Zachary Boyer, Joseph and Connor Sanderson; 27 precious great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Romayne Carpenter; dear nieces and nephews; and a host of treasured friends. She was preceded in death by: husband, Len Grabowski; newborn son, John Otto Niggli II, son, Ron Niggli; step-son, Brian Grabowski; step-grandson, Daniel Grabowski; parents, Edward and Carol Carpenter; brothers, Lyle and Richard "Dick" Carpenter; sister, Jacqueline "Jackie" Harker. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Miyakawa and his staff for their compassionate care and friendship. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Linda's memory to be made to one of the organizations closest to her heart: Tulare Salvation Army, PO Box 1296, Tulare CA 93275 or Tulare Senior Center, 201 North F Street, Tulare CA 93274. Memorial services will be held 10:00 AM Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Linda Jean Grabowski

April 26, 1936 - January 7, 2026