Randy Willinger

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Randall Eugene “Randy” Willinger, of Everton, MO, departed this life on his farm on September 12, 2024, at the age of 64.

He was born in southwest Kansas on July 20, 1960. Randy was the first-born child of Robert and Bonnie Willinger. His brothers and sisters are Bryant, Robyn, Brett and Rebecca.

Randy was born into a family of farmers, and with his grandfather's guidance, his passion for farming and ranching grew. 

In 1979, alongside his cousin Greg, they journeyed to a ranch in Missouri. During a wild New Year's Eve party, Randy met Mary and shortly after they were wed. Returning back to the farm life in Kansas, they started their family in January of 1985 with the joyous birth of their son, Jousha Kyth. 

In the following years joined Stephanie Michelle, April Dawn and Leigh Anna. And embracing the quote, “Let’s get the hell outta Dodge,” the family moved back to the hills of Missouri. Alongside his wife and children, he continued to build his legacy. The humid summer days were filled with visits from nieces and nephews and loved ones. The days of fishing, working cattle, building corrals, and running the ranch made the years go by.

Transitioning from dad to papa, in 2008, his first granddaughter, Lilly Rae was born and so began the most rewarding chapter of his life; being a grandpa. He was blessed with the loved additions of Kaylee Jane, William Eugene and Olen James.

Randy was an avid gardener, news watcher, listener, music lover, and great conversationalist. From picking up hitchhikers, to assisting strangers and family in need, his good deeds were plentiful. He never turned anyone down and would give his last dollar, and often did. He truly understood the immeasurable value of people and connection.

Some of the most valuable memories of Randy include singing along to so many songs, loud and proud, and preferably the original version. Beautiful memories included riding horses together, eating breakfast, discussing politics and current events, working on projects together, and with these experiences he demonstrated an unconditional love that he effortlessly and endlessly gave.

The world is a sadder place without Randy in our lives, and he touched each of us with memories we will cherish forever.

Randy leaves behind his wife, Mary; his children, Joshua Willinger, Stephanie and Timothy Van Rhein, April and Andrew Hurshman, and Leigh Anna Willinger; his mother, Bonnie Willinger; his siblings, Bryant Willinger, Robyn and Bret Kendrick, Brett and Melina Willinger, and Rebecca Ridenour and fiancé Darrin Crist; many nieces and nephews; and grandchildren, Lilly, Kaylee, William and Olen.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at Greenfield Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dade County Emergency Services or to the Dade County First Responders. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.