In Memoriam: Linden Griffin, Jr.

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The pest control industry mourns the loss of Linden Griffin, Jr., second-generation owner of Griffin Pest Solutions, a company his father founded in 1929.  Griffin lost his battle to cancer Monday, April 11.. He was 72.

Born Feb. 23, 1944, in Detroit, Mich., Griffin moved with his family to Galesburg, Mich,, when his father relocated the company. 

Griffin was a sergeant in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968.  He graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in marketing after serving.

Griffin bought the business from his father in 1974 and took it from one-and-a-half technicians to 50.  As busy as Griffin was with building his business, he also made time for his other interests and hobbies, including skiing, hunting and fishing.

Griffin was devoted to his civic works like Rotary, the YMCA, Family & Children’s Services, and his church.  He believed in giving back to the industry that gave him so much, serving both in state and national associations for many years.  Griffin was also involved in another industry group, Associated Pest Services, for many years.  He credits his success to networking with so many amazing people in the pest control industry.  Linden believed there was no better group of people in the world and he was honored to know them and be part of their family.

Griffin is survived by his wife, Joyce Griffin; his stepchildren, Jeff and Eva Spencer, Kevin and Wendy Mazer, and Susan Mazer; and grandhildren Mallory Mazer, Taylor Mazer, Trent Mazer, Travis Mazer,Tate Mazer and Madison Mazer.