Randy was one of my favorite people I’ve ever known and someone I sadly spent way too little time with to be satisfied. I never saw him without a smile and the only time I ever saw him seeming “off” was around the time David Bowie died haha! I remember seeing him at some family get-together and he looked a little less perky than his normal self but I remember it like it was yesterday. I greeted him as I always did “hey Randy, how you doing?” But this time was different. He looked me dead in the eyes and shook his head and goes “Chris… we lost Bowie! What else matters today!?” I remember looking at him and we both just burst out laughing so hard together because it was such a pure and hilarious moment. I know this is a silly story but that stuck with me ever since and I always laugh when I think of it.
Randy and I did not know each other all that well or for all that long but we bonded over music (among other things) and I would text with him when Kara and I were living in Chicago and he would sometimes share music he thought I would like (and was usually right)! I remember one time Kara looked over at me late one night and asked me who I was texting and I laughed and said “your uncle” and she was beside herself sort of laughing but obviously confused. All this is to say that Randy was a pure, genuine good-hearted soul and someone I always respected for how he treated others and made them feel. What little interaction we had was alway pleasant and he will be so dearly missed.
Randy is one of the few fortunate people who can say he left this earth burning almost no bridges. I don’t know anyone who didn’t enjoy his company or who could have a bad thing to say about him. So few people can say that! He leaves an amazing legacy in the wonderful family he raised and the people who were lucky enough to know him. I loved him dearly and will always think fondly on our brief but meaningful time together. Much love Randy! I will miss you! - Chris
