From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 40s
Bill 'Captain Fun' Linden Dies at 79
Former Sun-Times designer Bill Linden, known as 'Captain Fun', died at 79 after a life of playful creativity.
In brief
Former Sun-Times designer Bill Linden, known as 'Captain Fun', died at 79 after a life of playful creativity. Bill Linden, a former Chicago Sun-Times page designer who died at 79, was celebrated for his humor and creative spirit. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Bill 'Captain Fun' Linden
Bill Linden, a former Chicago Sun-Times page designer, died at 79.
Creative Playful Spirit
Linden loved making people smile with clown noses, pirate eye patches, and silly hats.
Sun-Times Designer
He worked for the Chicago Sun-Times from 1969 to 1996 doing graphic design and page layout.
Riccardo's Social Hub
Linden frequented Riccardo's, a now-closed bar at Rush and Hubbard streets, where he played games and sang.
Spoons Challenge
He tried to hang 13 spoons on his face, his personal best, at Riccardo's.
Tap Dancing Game
Linden collected loose change from patrons to tap dance and tip his bartender.
Unsanctioned Ride
He once took a Sun-Times delivery truck for a brief joy ride.
Comic Strip Creator
Linden wrote for Jeff MacNelly’s 'Shoe' comic strip, featuring newsmen as birds.
Disco Guide
He created a 1978 guide to disco dancing with step-by-step photos.
Photo Enthusiast
Linden took photos of city scenes and helped tourists with pictures.
Banana Headdress
He encouraged people to wear Chiquita banana headdresses for photos.
Bean-A-Palooza
Linden organized annual 'Bean-A-Palooza' gatherings at Millennium Park.
Family Legacy
He taught his nieces and nephews to appreciate Tim Burton movies and light matches.
Death and Legacy
Linden died Sept. 15, 2026, at 79 from natural causes, leaving a legacy of joy.
The one thing
Bill Linden, a former Chicago Sun-Times page designer who died at 79, was celebrated for his humor and creative spirit.
