GTK Krell Monitors, particularly gkrellm, have evoked a sense of nostalgia among users who have utilized it in the past, highlighting its evolution and ongoing development. Despite the passing of its original creator, Bill Wilson, the tool continues to be maintained and remains effective for monitoring system metrics. Users appreciate its lightweight performance, especially on older hardware like the Raspberry Pi, and one commenter noted its enduring presence in distributions such as Slackware. The etymology of 'Krell' ties back to the sci-fi classic 'Forbidden Planet', showcasing the cultural references embedded in tech tools.