Ted Lint

Intuitive, compassionate, and strong-willed, Theodore "Ted" Lint lived a beautiful life rich in friendship and creativity. A heart-centered man, Ted was gifted with exceptional musical talent, which he generously shared with the world. Whether playing in the comforts of his home, in a performance, or guiding a student's growth, Ted poured his soul into his vocation. Revered by many, Ted will long be remembered and so very missed.

1958, the year the microchip was invented and NASA was formed, Van Cliburn won the Tchaikovsky Competition for pianists in Moscow, breaking Cold War tension. John Coltrane and Miles Davis dominated the jazz charts. The same year the bossa nova was born, and Jim Henson's Muppets, Inc. was formed. Candid Camera also brought laughter to our homes each week. It was truly a time of hope and prosperity. Nowhere did hope reign more clearly than in the hearts and home of Richard W. and Ruth (Wester) Lint as they welcomed their son Ted on March 30 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Ted and his family lived in the Heritage Hill neighborhood before moving to Woodcrest on the west side. His father was a health inspector for the county and city, and his mother worked as a hairdresser. At the age of seven, Ted began taking piano lessons, which grew into a lifelong passion. Ted attended West Middle School and graduated from Union High School. He first began playing piano publicly at the age of 18.

After high school, Ted continued his education at Grand Rapids Junior College, Aquinas College, and Grand Valley State University. During these early years, Ted worked several jobs while also going to school and performing.

Trained and accomplished in classical piano, Ted possessed a gift and passion for improvisation. While he had many influences, including pianist Bill Evans, New York bebop, West Coast, Latin and Afro American jazz rhythms, he quickly established his own style. With a unique sound and complex improvisation, he played scores of venues and private gatherings for over 40 years. He performed solo, in duets, trios, and quartets. Ted also offered advanced piano instruction to many students over the years. Pianists sought him out to improve their ability to play beyond the notes on the page. He carefully supported them in providing fuller, thicker, more complex interpretation and improvisation.

In his mid-thirties, Ted met Vickie Ricks, a GVSU professor teaching literature and writing, at a faculty party. Vickie was impressed by Ted's conversation and knowledge, and they began dating. After dating for about a year, the couple married on May 20, 1994. In a small private wedding ceremony in Ted's parents' backyard, Ted and Vickie lovingly exchanged the marriage vows they'd each written. They followed their wedding celebration with a honeymoon in Chicago, with a visit to the Art Museum.

Ted was well-read. He enjoyed exploring Oriental and American poetry, Chinese philosophy, poet Allen Ginsberg, and other Beat poets. Dark Fiction writer Cormac McCarthy was also a favorite. Ted had time to read, digest, and research the authors, stories, and poetry he enjoyed. This allowed him to know more than most people and fueled many engaging discussions.

Travels to many jazz clubs, San Francisco, Seattle, and Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto were highlights for Ted. He also enjoyed eating out at his favorite restaurants, Zeytin Turkish Restaurant in Ada and Jia Yaun Chinese Restaurant in GR. Another source of joy for Ted was sharing a special companionship with his fur friends Mr. Moto a Siamese and Nica who shared Ted's strong-will.

When difficulties and health issues arose, Ted turned to his music in search of the normalcy he sought. Playing was a sanctuary, always providing solace and peace during life's storms. A uniquely talented man, Ted's friendship, passion, and willingness to share his gifts are the cornerstones of his legacy.

Theodore Glen Lint, age 65, passed away on July 18, 2023 after a brief illness. Ted was born March 30, 1958, in Grand Rapids to the late Richard W. and Ruth (Wester) Lint. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Vickie E. Ricks. According to Ted's wishes, cremation has taken place. Interment will be in Rosedale Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to Gilda's Club, Reuben's Room Cat Rescue, or the charity of choice. To read more of Ted's life story, leave a memory or condolence please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.