Randy served in the United States Air Force. He worked for Caterpillar in East Peoria as a Machinist, retiring after 47 years. Randy had many passions and interests, but his greatest love was his family and spending time with his grandchildren; doing his best to not miss a game or event for the kids. Randy was a member of the American Legion, Post #140 in Farmington. He was a lifetime member of the Farmington Moose Lodge #1571; where he acquired the distinguished Fellowship Degree and later was honored to receive the Moose of the Year award.
He is survived by his wife, Michelle (Cole) Welker, whom he married later in life. His children, Kelly (Steve) Hammond, Brandy (Josh) Putrich all of Farmington, Austin Anderson of Glasford, and Abbie Anderson of Arizona; grandchildren Brooke (Zach) Marquess, Brittany, Brock and Braylee Hammond, Jenna (Jake) Haulk, Rylie and Reece Putrich;
great-grandchildren Clayton, Sadie, and Bella Marquess, and Daisy Hammond; one sister, Gayla Welker and two brothers, Jerry (Cilia) Welker and Dooley (Emily) Welker all of Farmington; and many special nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Randy was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting with his brothers, but teamed up for Spring turkey season with his wife, and fishing- especially with his nephews. He had a passion for golf, taking trips to Hilton Head, SC and enjoyed the challenge of new courses. A proud accomplishment was when he achieved a hole-in-one during an outing with many friends.
He loved "outlaw" music, especially Waylon Jennings; his passion later added Blackberry Smoke, meeting the band on several occasions while traveling to see them perform in five
states and earning a place in the Blackberry Smoke Brothers and Sisters family. Randy had many friends and buddies whom he always made time for and were an important part of his life.
As Randy requested, cremation will be accorded through Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton. There will be a private family graveside service at a later date. Randy requested any memorial contribution be made to Farmington Rescue #1100 or the Farmington Police Department. The family would like to thank Farmington Rescue #1100 and Farmington PD for the many times they were there and went above and beyond in caring for Randy.
In true Randy fashion, the family invites you to turn on the music and raise a Miller High Life in celebration of his life, just as he would have for his Cubbies.
To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.
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