1951 - 2017
Randy passed away peacefully on April 17, 2017. He is survived by his wife of 34 years; Jill, daughters Jen (Joel), Jodi (James), Casey, and grandchildren Jandin, Odin, and Nate, mother Sylvia, brother Michael (Carmen), sister Kim, step-brother Dean (Sue), step-sister Frankie (Bill), and step-brother Dallas nieces and nephews and family. Predeceased by his father Michael and step-mother Vi. Born in Saskatchewan, Randy grew up mainly in BC but spent three years in Nova Scotia. His apprenticeship for heavy duty mechanics was started under the tutelage of his father and was completed in Merritt before finally settling in Vernon when he was in his early 20’s. He shared several motorcycles with his brother prior to obtaining his license in high school; the two would travel to high school on the bike even during winter, holding their briefcases en route. In Nova Scotia during his early years, he found his passion in carpentry by building tree houses which were the envy of any child – 2 storey forts, all linked with walkways between the trees. Randy and his wife Jill enjoyed many tours and trips around the country and continent, travelling across Canada to Nova Scotia (a former home), to Yellowstone (on his bucket list), to the northern most (driveable) part of Canada, as well as a motorcycle trip in the early 1980’s to California. Randy worked as a heavy-duty mechanic for almost 30 years prior to semi-retirement; his knowledge in mechanics allowed him to build a 6-gear go-cart for his daughters from a motorcycle he used for parts. He also was a competent welder and built canopy beds and many other things for the family. Randy spent the last two years of his life battling Mesothelioma. Prior to a decline in health, Randy was an avid cyclist, cross country skier, swimmer and orienteer among many other activities and enjoyed the outdoors and camping almost every weekend following retirement. Of course, we can’t forget happy hour in the evenings, and the coffee outings with his friends. He also spent his days and evenings working in his shop on carpentry projects such as custom furniture and fixtures; never with intent to profit but to only provide for the family (and all the custom orders that were submitted were filled!). Even during his final two years battling cancer, Randy was in the shop diligently fulfilling his lifelong dream of being a carpenter and was entirely self-taught. The tradition of a pre-dinner happy hour wine continued into his stay at Hospice - everyone knew what to expect when friends started arriving around 5:00, even the staff! His appreciation of food followed (not spicy, please) and many hours were spent reminiscing with the comradery of friends and family. The family extends its deepest thanks to the staff and volunteers at Hospice House and Acute Care Team 1 Community Care Nurses and the cancer centre. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the North Okanagan Hospice Society where Randy spent his last two months. Happy Hour for Randy will be held on June 3, 2017. Please contact a family member for more information.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s on-line obituary @ www.MyAlternatives.ca.
Arrangements entrusted to ALTERNATIVES FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES ® Vernon 250-558-0866 & Armstrong 250-546-7237