Randy Lee Skappel

Randy Lee Skappel, 62, of Cedar Valley, passed away on Dec. 1, 2015, in the comfort of his home following a short but courageous battle with cancer.Randy was born in Winona on April 6, 1953 to Donald and Marion (Schueler) Skappel. He attended Winona Senior High School, and graduated from the auto body program at Winona Vo Tech in 1971. He subsequently worked for Fred's Body Shop in Winona for 44 ½ years.Randy married Jeannie Lelwica in 1972--they later divorced. On May 2, 1987, he married the love of his life, Kim Sanden, at the Rose Garden in Winona.Over the years, Randy participated in many sports, including softball, bowling, golf, shooting pool, horseshoes, snowmobiling, deer hunting, and fishing. He was an avid Vikings and Twins fan, and especially enjoyed being Gardy's look-a-like for 13 seasons. He was a member of the Westfield Golf Course, the MN Deer Hunters Association, and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles. Randy also enjoyed his trips to Vegas, Agate Lake, Florida, Alaska, Laughlin, Lake Ida, the Metrodome, Target Field, NASCAR races, and many, many happy hours.Randy is lovingly survived by his wife of 28 ½ years, Kimmer; daughters April (Joe) Lehnertz and Kristine (Steve) Kreckow; granddaughters Megan and Angie Lehnertz; brothers Rick (Melody) Skappel, Mike (Jenny) Skappel, and Gary (Nola) Skappel; sisters Gayle (Steve) Lawrence and Mary (Steve) Evans; mother-in-law Deanna Sanden; sisters-in-law Kelly (Steve) Merrick and Krissa (Jon) Bedsted; his protector / cat-that-thinks-he's-a-dog, Satchimo; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Randy was a terrific Husband, a great Dad, and a fun Grampa. He had a heart of gold, a gentle soul, and was that guy who talked to people in elevators.A Celebration of Life will be held at Hoff Celebration of Life Center, Goodview, MN on Friday, Dec. 4 from 9:00 am- 11:11 am. A short service will be held at 11:30 am. The Celebration will then continue at the Witoka Tavern--you are welcome to join us there at any time until 3:30 pm. Per Randy's request, please dress casual in your favorite Vikings or Twins attire.
Tribute video can be found at: videos.lifetributes.com/652204