Randall Lee Okey, 73, of Westerville, passed away peacefully Friday, February 2, 2024. Randy was born June 15, 1950 in Columbus, Ohio to Frederick and Gertrude (Barbara) (Lapinski) Okey.
Randy attended Linden McKinley high school. Randy proudly served in the army. A brave VietNam war veteran, Randy exemplified courage and honor in defending his county. His selflessness on the battlefield will be remembered with gratitude.
He worked at Columbus Auto Parts until they closed their doors. He then went on to earn an Associates Degree from Columbus State Community College and graduated with honors which made his family so proud.
He then worked as an HVAC Technician with the City of Columbus for Facilities Management and retired from his civil service duties June 2010.
Randy devoted his life to gardening. Many people claimed his home grown tomatoes were the best they had ever tasted! Randy did not only grow vegetables, his asiatic lilies and day lilies were beautiful. His green thumb brought joy to all who admired his gardens and they will continue blooming long after his death. His friends and family will enjoy his garden for years.
Randy was a jack of all trades. He possessed a wealth of knowledge and skills that knew no bounds. His resourcefulness and ingenuity were truly unmatched.
He found great joy in his hobbies which also included a passion for radio-controlled airplanes, where he would guide his models with expert precision. Additionally, his adventures on his BMW motorcycle brought him immense pleasure as he rode the streets of Westerville. He was also an avid Buckeye fan and cheered on his team with unwavering loyalty.
Though Randy has passed, his spirit lives on in the memories he created and the lives he touched. As we mourn his loss, let us celebrate and honor the richness of his life, grateful for the time we were blessed to spend in his company.
Randy will be deeply missed by his wife, Monica Okey, of 47 years, Jason Okey, Jessica Okey (Felix); grandchildren Louis White, Carmen White, Felix Lima; great-grandchild Nova White.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents Frederick Okey and Barbara Okey (Lapinski); Brothers Lawrence Okey and Fredrick Okey.
Visitation will be Saturday, February 24, 2024 from 9:30 am-10:30 am at Newcomer NE Chapel, 3047 E Dublin Granville Rd. Columbus, Ohio. Memorial Service will begin at 10:30 am. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 9571 N High St Lewis Center, Ohio, where military rights will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Westerville Area Resource Ministry (WARM) 150 Heatherdown Drive Westerville, Ohio 43081. To share condolences with the family, please visit www.NewcomerColumbus.com