Michael J. Randerson Jr., age 44, passed away unexpectedly March 2, 2011 at St. Elizabeth Hospital. He was born in Appleton on June 17, 1966 the only son of Mike and Phyllis (Garvey) Randerson. Michael was very caring, personable and fun loving and people generally took an immediate liking to him. This attribute served him…
Continue ReadingMichael J. Randerson Jr., age 44, passed away unexpectedly March 2, 2011 at St. Elizabeth Hospital. He was born in Appleton on June 17, 1966 the only son of Mike and Phyllis (Garvey) Randerson.
Michael was very caring, personable and fun loving and people generally took an immediate liking to him. This attribute served him very well as he interacted with customers in the various jobs he had all through his life. Michael genuinely loved people and had the ability to make them feel his interest in them.
His passion was music, first playing the clarinet, and later he became an accomplished piano player who loved to sit and play for relaxation. He was the piano player at his church for many years, the pastor often lovingly referred to him as “Fingers Randerson.” We remember his music reverberating through the house as he practiced; he would not give up until each piece was exactly the way he wanted.
He also loved animals, particularly cats, and had a faithful feline companion. “keek monster”, who ran his household for 17 years. He loved stock car racing and was involved with his best friend John Anthony's racing team. One of Michael's favorite memories was being part of the WIR 1990 championship team. He started out in 1978 as a young man helping in the family race car business (Rander-Car Racing) sweeping floors and gradually progressed to managing parts sales and manufacturing inventory. The family business was sold in 1992 and he moved on to several other jobs in the area.
Michael spent all of his life in the Appleton area until 2002 when he relocated to Canton Ohio with his long-time friend and trusty side-kick Jeneen Liebergen. While living in Ohio he was employed by Americold Logistics and later with Paco Pallets. With the economic downturn his company down-sized eliminating his position and Michael moved back to Appleton in mid-2008 to seek employment here.
He is survived by his parents and three sisters: Jean Ann (Ray) Clemons of Grants, New Mexico and their children Samuel and Lydia; Summer Newlin of Neenah, Wisconsin and her children Ethan, Ella, Anna, and Aidan; and
Beth (Paul) Koch of Fort Wayne, Indiana and their children Owen and Siena. He is further survived by aunts, uncles, and friends.
The funeral service for Michael will be held at 6:45 PM on Monday, March 7, 2011 at CALVARY BIBLE CHURCH, 1450 Oakridge Road in Neenah. Friends will be received at the church on Monday from 4:00PM until the time of service at 6:45. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund in Michael's name is being established.
Wichmann Funeral Home
Tri County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida Street
Appleton, WI 54915
920-831-9905
Mary Randerson Bungert
left a message on March 13, 2011:
I am just finding this out. I appologize. I would have been there in a heart beat. Also on this day I had my knee replacement. My condolences to Mike, Phyllis and family. God Bless!
Mary Randerson Bungert
Shirley Dorschner
left a message on March 10, 2011:
Mike and Phyllis
I am so sorry to read about Michael. I remember him coming over to the house for piano lessons and certainly remember him playing in the band in Kimberly. I know music was an important part of his life and I feel very proud to have been one of his teachers. Yes he was an extremely hard worker and wanted to do everything correctly.
Matt Zirpoli
left a message on March 8, 2011:
Summer
I am so sorry to hear about your brother. I am praying for you and your family during this difficult time. May God bless your brother. He is in a peaceful and wonderful place now.
Matt Z.
Mr and Mrs Cary Hanson (Ray Seidl's Step Daughter)
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Ellen (Batley) Kaller
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Our thoughts and condolences go out to you and your family for your loss.
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Bill Tandetzke
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Mike & Phyllis,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Mike.
Joe Vander Wyst
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Was very shocked and even more saddened to here of Mike's passing. There truly wasn't a better human being. I'll keep only fond memories of fun times. Thoughts and prayers are with the family and may we all be comforted through God's grace.
Patty Butz
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Our deepest sympathy to the Randerson family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult transition in your lifes. May God Bless You and give you strength. Mike Butz Racing
Mike-Patty-Matt-Chad
Tina Trittin-Wilcock
left a message on March 7, 2011:
My deepest sympathy to the Randerson family and friends. I knew Mike well during his high school years and enjoyed playing the clarinet alongside of him. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone. He will be greatly missed.
Bill & Sue Wanasek
left a message on March 6, 2011:
We wept when we heard the news. Speechless! Michael was a gift and shared his gifts. Our consolation: upon taking his last breath, he opened his eyes in glory.
Pam Oster
left a message on March 6, 2011:
May God send the comforting Angels; my prayers for his beloved family and friends. I knew Mike during his Ohio years and it was a privledge! God Bless.
randy boegh
left a message on March 6, 2011:
thanks for all those memories,racing anl\d life. ill never forget what you and your dad did for me in racing iwould never have won with out all your help rest in piece liitle buddy.and say hi to kyle for me in heaven.
Guy Karen Gordon
left a message on March 6, 2011:
He rocked the church with his excellent additions to traditional hymns. We loved him.
Gail (Hoppe) Leonhard
left a message on March 6, 2011:
Mike and Phyllis,
It is with a very heavy heart that I extend my sympathy to you at this time. Mike was the sweetest guy and we shared a lot of great times at Grandma Ora's when we were little. I have always thought about Mike and all of you often. I will keep you all in my prayers. God Bless you all!
Gary and Brenda(Moss) Anderson
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our hearts are sadden by the lost of a friend. Mike always had a kind word and a smile for everyone. Just like he did in high school. He will be sadly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Brian & Ellen Starszak
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. God Bless
dennis and jean fath
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Beth and paul koch and families, we are very sorry to hear about your brother{in-law} please accept our prayers for your families and condolences on your time of loss and grief. If there is any thing we can do for you please let us know, through ken and Becky Ambrosini. Again, we are very sorry. Dennis and Jeannie fath.
Pastor & Mrs. Mark Weiss
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time of loss. He will be Greatly missed!! We have fond memories of Mike being the Church piano player. He did a very good job!
Love In Christ
Pastor & Mrs. Mark Weiss
West Hutchison VP, Customer Service Americold
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Saddened to hear of the passing of Michael. Please accept my condolences on behalf of his former co-workers and customers at Americold. I had the opportunity to work with Michael for several years and always had great respect for his work - he was a pleasure to work with.
Wayne Weckwerth
left a message on March 5, 2011:
It is so sad to loose our loved ones soon . I remember the both of you beieng very proud of your son and it seems so unfair to loose him . May your faith help and keep you through these difficult times
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Kay Mierzwinski
left a message on March 5, 2011:
My heartfelt condolences to the Randerson family. I am saddened at the loss of one so young, but he is in his glory with the Lord. We will all be rejoined with our loved ones and what a day that will be. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Kay Mierzwinski(Gloudemans)
Pat and Bobbi McCoy
left a message on March 5, 2011:
We we shocked and saddened to hear of Mike's passing at such a young age. We were very fortunate to have met Mike many years ago through his dear friend Jeneen Liebergen and will fondly remember the times we spent together, Mike always smiling. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Randerson family at this very difficult time. With heartfelt sympathy,
Vicki Appleby
left a message on March 5, 2011:
I was saddened to hear about Michael. He was such a shining light.No matter where I'd bump into him, he always had a moment to chat. He was a dear man, and he will be missed . My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike and Phylis. Losing a son must be the hardest thing, but know that he's providing beautiful piano music up in heaven, with that big smile on his face.
Kathy Zelensky
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Dear Phyliss amd Mike,
My memories of Michael start as a sweet and energetic little boy whom my sisters and I babysat for.
We had fun together!
After that my memories are from the conversations I had with both of you and how you both enjoyed, loved, and were so proud of Michael.
My most recent memories of Michael are of times we were at family funerals. He was always so easy to connect. He had that beautiful smile, gentle spirit, and tenderness.
Someday your memories of 44 years of loving and living life together with him will bring you joy,happiness,and peace.
Today, I grieve with you and hold you in my heart.
May you be blessed with compassion,love,and moments of peace,
God's Blessings be upon all of you.
Love and Prayers,
Kathy and Bill Zelensky
Vandermolen
left a message on March 5, 2011:
We are so very sorry for your loss,are prayers and thoughts are with you at this time,cherrish all the wonderful memories you have he will always be with you in your hearts and your shining guardian angel watching over you
Vandermolen 30 Racing Team
Nikki Fabianich
left a message on March 5, 2011:
My prayers go out to the Randerson family at this time. I got to know Michael through my sister Cheri, they worked together at Americold for years. We spent a lot of time with him & Jeneen while they lived in Ohio. Michael was such a wonderful person, funny, caring, an awesome cook, there is so much someone could say about him, but most of all he was a true friend & I feel blessed to have known him. Michael you will be missed & I know you will be watching over us all. Thank you for all the good memories you have given me & Cheri - you will never be forgotten.
Forest & Glenda Peterson
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our prayers are with you and your family in this time of loss.
Jim Zornow
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Such a fine lad. Always smiling,courteous and pleasant to be around, is how I will remember him. What a tragic loss to all those who were blessed and fortunate enough to spend some quality time with Micheal's way too short visit with us. To the Randerson family, you have my sympathy.
Cheri Fabianich
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Michael and I worked side by side for years at Americold. He became one of the best friends I will ever have. I can't imagine never hearing his laugh again. He was a true friend. I will miss him so much. He will never be forgotten.
Mike Gloudemans
left a message on March 4, 2011:
My most heartfelt condolences go out to the Randerson family. The beauty and love of your family was so evident in Michael. My heart is heavy for those left behind but rest assured Michael is home with God and looking down on you. Remember, those who believe will never say good bye for the last time. Mike and Phyllis, when you think of Michael just say "see you later."
Adam Schuh
left a message on March 4, 2011:
My condolences to the Randerson Family. I am saddened by my cousin's short life here on earth. My heart is glad to know he is with our Saviour in Heaven.
Audra Seidl
left a message on March 4, 2011:
I am so sorry for your loss...I can understand how hard this time is for everyone..but I do believe God is there with you all and holding you close to his heart as he is holding Michael to...There is not a childhood memory that I have that Michael wasn't in it... he was funny and fun...and that is what I want to remember for always and his awesome smile...God bless and prayers go out to the Randerson family...Love Audra Seidl
LTC(R) Michael & Kerry Franks
left a message on March 4, 2011:
The dead in Christ will rise first; then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Mary Randerson Bungert
left a message on March 13, 2011:
I am just finding this out. I appologize. I would have been there in a heart beat. Also on this day I had my knee replacement. My condolences to Mike, Phyllis and family. God Bless!
Mary Randerson Bungert
Shirley Dorschner
left a message on March 10, 2011:
Mike and Phyllis
I am so sorry to read about Michael. I remember him coming over to the house for piano lessons and certainly remember him playing in the band in Kimberly. I know music was an important part of his life and I feel very proud to have been one of his teachers. Yes he was an extremely hard worker and wanted to do everything correctly.
Matt Zirpoli
left a message on March 8, 2011:
Summer
I am so sorry to hear about your brother. I am praying for you and your family during this difficult time. May God bless your brother. He is in a peaceful and wonderful place now.
Matt Z.
Mr and Mrs Cary Hanson (Ray Seidl's Step Daughter)
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
Ellen (Batley) Kaller
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Our thoughts and condolences go out to you and your family for your loss.
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Bill Tandetzke
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Mike & Phyllis,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Mike.
Joe Vander Wyst
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Was very shocked and even more saddened to here of Mike's passing. There truly wasn't a better human being. I'll keep only fond memories of fun times. Thoughts and prayers are with the family and may we all be comforted through God's grace.
Patty Butz
left a message on March 7, 2011:
Our deepest sympathy to the Randerson family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult transition in your lifes. May God Bless You and give you strength. Mike Butz Racing
Mike-Patty-Matt-Chad
Tina Trittin-Wilcock
left a message on March 7, 2011:
My deepest sympathy to the Randerson family and friends. I knew Mike well during his high school years and enjoyed playing the clarinet alongside of him. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone. He will be greatly missed.
Bill & Sue Wanasek
left a message on March 6, 2011:
We wept when we heard the news. Speechless! Michael was a gift and shared his gifts. Our consolation: upon taking his last breath, he opened his eyes in glory.
Pam Oster
left a message on March 6, 2011:
May God send the comforting Angels; my prayers for his beloved family and friends. I knew Mike during his Ohio years and it was a privledge! God Bless.
randy boegh
left a message on March 6, 2011:
thanks for all those memories,racing anl\d life. ill never forget what you and your dad did for me in racing iwould never have won with out all your help rest in piece liitle buddy.and say hi to kyle for me in heaven.
Guy Karen Gordon
left a message on March 6, 2011:
He rocked the church with his excellent additions to traditional hymns. We loved him.
Gail (Hoppe) Leonhard
left a message on March 6, 2011:
Mike and Phyllis,
It is with a very heavy heart that I extend my sympathy to you at this time. Mike was the sweetest guy and we shared a lot of great times at Grandma Ora's when we were little. I have always thought about Mike and all of you often. I will keep you all in my prayers. God Bless you all!
Gary and Brenda(Moss) Anderson
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our hearts are sadden by the lost of a friend. Mike always had a kind word and a smile for everyone. Just like he did in high school. He will be sadly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Brian & Ellen Starszak
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. God Bless
dennis and jean fath
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Beth and paul koch and families, we are very sorry to hear about your brother{in-law} please accept our prayers for your families and condolences on your time of loss and grief. If there is any thing we can do for you please let us know, through ken and Becky Ambrosini. Again, we are very sorry. Dennis and Jeannie fath.
Pastor & Mrs. Mark Weiss
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time of loss. He will be Greatly missed!! We have fond memories of Mike being the Church piano player. He did a very good job!
Love In Christ
Pastor & Mrs. Mark Weiss
West Hutchison VP, Customer Service Americold
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Saddened to hear of the passing of Michael. Please accept my condolences on behalf of his former co-workers and customers at Americold. I had the opportunity to work with Michael for several years and always had great respect for his work - he was a pleasure to work with.
Wayne Weckwerth
left a message on March 5, 2011:
It is so sad to loose our loved ones soon . I remember the both of you beieng very proud of your son and it seems so unfair to loose him . May your faith help and keep you through these difficult times
Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.
Kay Mierzwinski
left a message on March 5, 2011:
My heartfelt condolences to the Randerson family. I am saddened at the loss of one so young, but he is in his glory with the Lord. We will all be rejoined with our loved ones and what a day that will be. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Kay Mierzwinski(Gloudemans)
Pat and Bobbi McCoy
left a message on March 5, 2011:
We we shocked and saddened to hear of Mike's passing at such a young age. We were very fortunate to have met Mike many years ago through his dear friend Jeneen Liebergen and will fondly remember the times we spent together, Mike always smiling. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Randerson family at this very difficult time. With heartfelt sympathy,
Vicki Appleby
left a message on March 5, 2011:
I was saddened to hear about Michael. He was such a shining light.No matter where I'd bump into him, he always had a moment to chat. He was a dear man, and he will be missed . My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike and Phylis. Losing a son must be the hardest thing, but know that he's providing beautiful piano music up in heaven, with that big smile on his face.
Kathy Zelensky
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Dear Phyliss amd Mike,
My memories of Michael start as a sweet and energetic little boy whom my sisters and I babysat for.
We had fun together!
After that my memories are from the conversations I had with both of you and how you both enjoyed, loved, and were so proud of Michael.
My most recent memories of Michael are of times we were at family funerals. He was always so easy to connect. He had that beautiful smile, gentle spirit, and tenderness.
Someday your memories of 44 years of loving and living life together with him will bring you joy,happiness,and peace.
Today, I grieve with you and hold you in my heart.
May you be blessed with compassion,love,and moments of peace,
God's Blessings be upon all of you.
Love and Prayers,
Kathy and Bill Zelensky
Vandermolen
left a message on March 5, 2011:
We are so very sorry for your loss,are prayers and thoughts are with you at this time,cherrish all the wonderful memories you have he will always be with you in your hearts and your shining guardian angel watching over you
Vandermolen 30 Racing Team
Nikki Fabianich
left a message on March 5, 2011:
My prayers go out to the Randerson family at this time. I got to know Michael through my sister Cheri, they worked together at Americold for years. We spent a lot of time with him & Jeneen while they lived in Ohio. Michael was such a wonderful person, funny, caring, an awesome cook, there is so much someone could say about him, but most of all he was a true friend & I feel blessed to have known him. Michael you will be missed & I know you will be watching over us all. Thank you for all the good memories you have given me & Cheri - you will never be forgotten.
Forest & Glenda Peterson
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Our prayers are with you and your family in this time of loss.
Jim Zornow
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Such a fine lad. Always smiling,courteous and pleasant to be around, is how I will remember him. What a tragic loss to all those who were blessed and fortunate enough to spend some quality time with Micheal's way too short visit with us. To the Randerson family, you have my sympathy.
Cheri Fabianich
left a message on March 5, 2011:
Michael and I worked side by side for years at Americold. He became one of the best friends I will ever have. I can't imagine never hearing his laugh again. He was a true friend. I will miss him so much. He will never be forgotten.
Mike Gloudemans
left a message on March 4, 2011:
My most heartfelt condolences go out to the Randerson family. The beauty and love of your family was so evident in Michael. My heart is heavy for those left behind but rest assured Michael is home with God and looking down on you. Remember, those who believe will never say good bye for the last time. Mike and Phyllis, when you think of Michael just say "see you later."
Adam Schuh
left a message on March 4, 2011:
My condolences to the Randerson Family. I am saddened by my cousin's short life here on earth. My heart is glad to know he is with our Saviour in Heaven.
Audra Seidl
left a message on March 4, 2011:
I am so sorry for your loss...I can understand how hard this time is for everyone..but I do believe God is there with you all and holding you close to his heart as he is holding Michael to...There is not a childhood memory that I have that Michael wasn't in it... he was funny and fun...and that is what I want to remember for always and his awesome smile...God bless and prayers go out to the Randerson family...Love Audra Seidl
LTC(R) Michael & Kerry Franks
left a message on March 4, 2011:
The dead in Christ will rise first; then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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