John “Kipper Lacey” Randall
EUGENE - John “Kipper” Randall of Eugene was born on April 29, 1966 and passed away on December 4, 2023. He was 57.
John was born in Dallas, TX and grew up in Menlo Park, CA. He graduated from Menlo High School. During his time there, he played varsity baseball (first base/catcher) and football (tight end).
After graduating, John went to college at the University of Oregon and studied art. He enjoyed classic rock and punk music, even sporting a mohawk a time or two. He enjoyed live concerts, especially of the Grateful Dead, having seen many performances over the decades, up and down the West Coast. Aside from practicing vocals with a few friends’ bands, John once performed the national anthem at an Em’s game, surprising everyone with his talent. He was invited back to sing anytime he wanted.
JR wore many hats, most of them involved getting outside and in nature. He shortly worked in construction, but then left lumber for the trees in wildfire fighting, tree-planting, and forest surveying. John enjoyed cooking for friends, rockhounding, fishing, fly tying, bow hunting, lapidary practices, traveling, and collecting art. He participated in many gem shows around the country, always making lifelong friends along the way. John also loved visiting family at home and abroad, sending postcards to his friends and family.
He loved good food, good drink, and good laughs with his “chuckleheads.” He was quick to get to the point and just as quick to forgive and forget. While he fought many fires, that never stopped him from stoking those in the hearts of his loved ones with his candor and splendor.
John is preceded in death by life partner Susie Scroggins, father John Randall, and stepfather Gene McFadden. Survived by mother Jo McFadden of Glen Haven, CO, brother Jay McFadden and sister-in-law Laura McFadden of Northlake, TX.
He will be missed immensely but remain forever in the hearts of the many who were fortunate to know and love him.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice or reach out to someone you have not seen in a while and take them out to lunch.