Randal Raymond Dorschner

Randal Raymond Dorschner, 71, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend passed away peacefully on November 28, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was born on September 16, 1953, in Neenah, Wisconsin, to Raymond and Donna (Steffens) Dorschner.

Randy’s life was marked by a deep passion for music, ignited during his formative years playing the saxophone and concertina in his father’s polka band, Ray Dorschner’s Rainbow Valley Dutchmen. After attending St. Mary’s High School in Menasha, he went on to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a degree in music education. On January 2, 1976, he was united in marriage to Shirley Lynn Hamann. Randy’s career blossomed the same year, when he opened Dorschner Music Services in Appleton where he dedicated himself to repairing band instruments for countless residents and schools throughout the Fox Valley area.

For over four decades, he became a familiar figure and longtime member of the Appleton City Band while playing the clarinet and tenor saxophone. Randy was a talented musician in many genres, playing clarinet in Dixieland bands and the local music ensemble, Vento Winds.

Randy had a deep appreciation for classic cars, often attending local car shows such as License to Cruise and the Appleton Old Car Show at Pierce Park. With pride, he maintained a beautiful 1956 Chevy Bel Air and a sleek 1983 Grand Prix, showcasing their craftsmanship and design. Randy’s legacy lives on through his music, his family, and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey.

Randal is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Dorschner, his son Jason Dorschner, brother Steven (Carrie) Dorschner, sister-in-law Lisa Dorschner, nieces and nephews Derrick Dorschner, Gloria (Ben) Dorschner-Mackie, John Dorschner, Raymond Dorschner and Mary Dorschner. Randal was preceded in death by his parents and his brother James Dorschner.

A funeral service for Randal will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St. in Appleton at 5:00 pm with visitation beginning from 1:00 PM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Randy’s memory to the Vento Winds at ventowinds.org.

The family would like to thank the intensive care unit staff of Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee for their compassionate care.