Randy spent 6 years in the Navy as a missile technician on a ballistic missile submarine, the SSBN-656 George Washington Carver. Randy’s missile crew was the only crew that successfully shot off a ballistic missile during a DASO missile test launch in Florida.
Randy was quite the conversationalist and would talk with anyone! Many times, as Randy and I, Betty Jo, walked together, I would turn around and he would be way behind in a conversation with someone we passed. He volunteered at 4-Points Senior Center to drive seniors to appointments; I’m sure lots of conversation went on during those drives.
He enjoyed golfing with his buddies, reading (a regular at The Book Cellar), playing cards (always saying he’s never been beat), watching sports (coaching football and soccer when our sons were younger; going to college/school sporting events), fishing, occasional casino play, being a Deacon at The First Presbyterian Church of Grand Haven as well as helping out with events.
Randy’s parents, Lester and Annabell, and younger sister, Cindy (Lucinda), preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Betty Jo (Mapes), of 55 years (plus 5 years dating); sons Dean (Andi) and Rob (Thai); grandchildren Henry (9 ½ years) and Oscar (1 year); sisters, Leslie and Sandi; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Randy’s celebration of life is tentatively being planned around August 2024.
Memorial gifts:
Over the years, Randy and Betty Jo have given to various charitable organizations, so please pick your favorite charitable organization and give in Randy’s name. A few suggestions: Joyful Noise Day Care, Grand Haven, MI; St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital; American Heart Association
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