Randy Lee Huffman

Although he was taken from his loved ones too soon, Randy Huffman made a significant impact in the world around him in the time he was here. He was as generous as they come - the sort of person who would give the shirt off his own back if someone was in need. Randy was an avid fisherman and hunter, sports enthusiast, and successful businessman, but above all he was a devoted family man. Perhaps the title he treasured most, however, was that of grandfather as it was easy to see that his three grandchildren were the light of his life. A man of great honor, integrity, and compassion, Randy will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The Nifty Fifties were a colorful time in American history. Elvis Presley took the music world by storm while shows like Father Knows Best provided us with an idyllic outlook on life. Both the United States and the Soviet Union worked tirelessly to dominate space, and we added both Alaska and Hawaii as our 49th and 50th states. It was during this exciting time that a young family from Bradley, Illinois, had some excitement of their own as they welcomed a healthy baby boy into their hearts and home on November 18, 1957. Randy Lee was one of eight children born to his parents, Charles and Barbara Huffman, in nearby Kankakee. Raised alongside his siblings, Sondra, Debra, Richard, Glenda, Beverly, Roger, and Tara Sue, in a two bedroom house, he was a bustle of activity from the time he was a young boy. Randy’s father worked as a roofer while his mother was a busy wife, mother, and homemaker.

In many ways Randy experienced an upbringing that was reflective of the times. He was a student at local schools and enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting, especially for rabbits, as well as playing basketball and roller skating. As he got older Randy got into deer hunting, wrestling, and trap shooting. He went on to graduate from Bradley Bourbonnais High School ahead of schedule. From there Randy took some classes at Kankakee Community College.

Not to be forgotten during his years in high school was Randy’s introduction to the young girl with whom he would share the best years of his life. Her name was Maureen Rivard, and after dating for a time they found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to establish a life together, the sweethearts were united in marriage on September 11, 1976, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bradley. Together Randy and Maureen were blessed with one son, Nick. As a family they enjoyed fishing trips to Canada, and they also went to Branson, Missouri, numerous times. To support his family, Randy owned Dunnrite Roofing and Looney Bin Tavern.

As someone who liked to be busy, Randy was a man of many interests. He continued to be passionate about the outdoors, enjoying activities like fishing and hunting. Randy once shot a buffalo that weighed over 2000 pounds with one shot, and he was also a member of Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, the NRA, the Exline Sportsman’s Club, and the Illinois State Rifle Association. Additionally, he was a longtime member of the Masonic Lodge as a 32nd degree mason. Randy was a fan of the Chicago Bears, and when it came to music he loved country music, classic rock and Motown. When relaxing at home he enjoyed older shows like The Honeymooners, Andy Griffith, Sanford and Son, and his favorite movie was One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Once grandchildren arrived, Randy wanted to spend every moment with them that he could. Callie, Waylon, and Cash were his true delight.

All who knew Randy would agree that he was one of the most incredible people around. Somehow he woke up happy every single day, and he was always smiling, too. He was the life of the party wherever he went, which made him so much fun to be around. Randy loved making others laugh, and he was known for his practical jokes. Eternally generous, he frequently gave out things like flowers, candy, and candy apples to people.

With a life that spanned times of great change in the world around him, Randy Huffman created a brilliantly colored mosaic of memories alongside the people he loved most. He was vibrant, fun-loving, and spirited with a great sense of humor to boot and a laugh that was contagious to those around him. Although he accomplished so much of which to be proud, Randy was a humble man who was never concerned about what he had, rather, he was focused on how he could be a blessing to those around him. Randy will never be forgotten.

Randy Lee Huffman, of Bourbonnais, IL, died on Friday, January 24, 2014, at Ochsner West Bank Hospital in Gretna, LA. Randy’s family includes his wife, Maureen of Bourbonnais, IL; son, Nick (Angela) Huffman of Bourbonnais, IL; grandchildren, Callie, Waylon, and Cash; dear family friend, Stephanie Meents of Bourbonnais, IL; sisters, Debra (Terry) Leathers, Sondra (Richard) Bradford, Glenda (David) Hill, and Beverly Allen; brothers, Richard (Laurie) Huffman and Roger and Christine Huffman; and many nieces, nephews and friends. Randy was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Tara Sue Huffman. A time of gathering will take place on Wednesday, January 29, 2014, from 2-8 p.m. at Schreffler Life Story Funeral Homes. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2014, at 10 a.m. at Schreffler Life Story Funeral Homes Kankakee Chapel followed by an interment at Kankakee Memorial Gardens in Kankakee, IL. In lieu of flowers memorials to the family’s wishes would be appreciated. To share a memory, upload a photo, or to sign Randy’s guestbook please visit www.schrefflerfuneralhome.com.