We love talking with neigh-bors who have been here for nearly four decades, because they have a story to tell. And Chris Lindgren is no exception.
You’re a rare gem and have more stories than we can handle, so let’s start with how you found yourself in Denver.
I moved to Denver in the summer of 1980, settled on Old South Pearl Street, and lived there for the majority of the 80’s. My sister lived in Denver, and I decided to relocate from Missoula, Montana after a visit (I moved to Missoula immediately after high school and attended the University of Montana). I found myself in Denver on a youth-inspired whim. Counting the Pearl Street days, and our Wash Park home, I’ve spent nearly 35 years in the neighborhood. I get “Grampa Neighborhood” looks when talking about the days before Sushi Den, Whole Foods, and evolution of the residential real estate.
Before Denver, you were somewhat of a celebrity in Grand Forks, ND. Take us back in time to the good old days at Westward Ho.
That’s funny, far from a celebrity. After 11 years of living in Denver, I moved back to my hometown of Grand Forks, ND and began work at the family biz; The Fabulous Westward Ho. “The Ho” was a regionally iconic entertainment complex founded in 1953. It was a 15-acre complex that developed and morphed over the years. During my run, the 90’s, the property consisted of a diner unchanged from the 50’s, sports bar casino, Italian restaurant, comedy club, banquet and convention center, live music and special event promotions, and 108 motel rooms. The property was developed by my father, Don Lindgren. He was the celeb, a legendary character and leader of the region. I met my wife Kim at The Ho. I also met comedian Mitch Hedberg in 1991 while performing at the comedy club. I moved back to Denver with Kim in 2002.
Mitch Hedberg was a dear friend of yours. What can you tell us about his upcoming documentary and how are you involved?
Mitch appeared at The Ho at about the time he started touring nationally as a middle act. He developed at a rapid pace and eventually become a huge draw. He performed more at The Ho than any other club, headlined first nationally at the club, and other milestones. David Letterman plugged the complex and Grand Forks after Mitch’s first appearance on his show. Mitch and I became fast friends. I was coming from 3+ years on the Historic Paramount Theater management staff here in Denver. Working 20+ shows a month. In addition to being an amazing time for the concert and live event industry, it was also the comedy boom. I was fortunate to work with and meet George Carlin, Sam Kinison, Steven Wright, Gallagher, Bill Cosby, Paula Poundstone, and many others. It truly was a boom. Mitch new my background and quizzed me constantly. He was driven to succeed on his terms. It was always understood that we’d stay connected, and I’d road manage him when he elevated to performing theaters. That time came in the Fall of 2004, and sadly he died not long after the tour. Every day social media reminds me that Mitch still enjoys a huge fan base that grows daily. He truly was an artist. Mitch’s comprehensive story deserves to be heard. A filmmaker has been working hard on a project. We’re engaged because of my relationship with Mitch. I’ll be grateful to contribute any way I can for Mitch’s family and fans. If you see me exercising or tanning anytime soon, you’ll know why.
Your stories are a glaring reminder of the changing times. What are you most nostalgic about from the 90s and 2000s?
I’d have to say independent businesses and the people and families that made them and created lifelong memories for others. You asked about the 90’s and 2,000’s, but I’ll always be a 70’s child. The culture, music, cars, turmoil, etc. It was an amazing time.
Your days heading up comedy boot camps and event planning for music venues are over. So how do you spend your days currently?
I’m a full service Commercial Real Estate broker with Hoff & Leigh. It’s rewarding to have experienced a fierce entrepreneurial family background, and now assist business owner/operators. People know me best for my Tenant Rep work. I’m very grateful for working with great local businesses like Fancy Tiger Crafts that recently relocated, Dozens Restaurant reopening shortly after a fire at their original location, and Kiké’s Red Tacos, among other local businesses and national franchisees. I work with retail, office, and industrial clients.
What can we expect from you in the future?
I don’t think I’ll ever transition to a typical retirement. I would expect my future will be more of the same…family, work, classic cars, guitars, gardening, travel, photography, hiking, golf, thrifting, patio hangs with friends…I love to cook and entertain. Also, I feel everyone nowadays has a “side hustle.” I’d like one! Hopefully someday I’ll be back talking with you and my neighbors about my hustle. I’m a huge fan of Urban Life Wash Park. I look forward to every issue! Wash Park has always been a community of neighbors. Urban Life contributes to the community. Keep up the great work and thanks for having me!
Thank you for giving us the goods, Chris. You’re solid gold.