Michael Randerson, Jr.

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 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