Randy E. Bisard

All who knew Randy Bisard would agree that there was rarely a dull moment when he was around. He was fun-loving with a great sense of humor and a contagious laugh to boot. Randy was a devoted father who dearly loved his children, yet he just may have argued that there was nothing better than becoming a grandfather. He had a huge heart and a home that was open to others, his generosity unmatched. Life will never be the same without Randy here, but the memories he leaves behind will remain lasting treasures in the hearts and lives of his numerous friends and loved ones. It seems only fitting that Randys journey began during a time that was as vibrant as he was. The decade that is often recalled as the Nifty Fifties introduced us to rock n roll and television shows like I Love Lucy and Lassie while Alaska and Hawaii became our nations 49th and 50th states. Civil rights and womens rights were gaining momentum, and the first United States satellite orbited the earth. Amidst this time of discovery there was a bustling family from Muskegon, Michigan, who was overjoyed to welcome a healthy baby boy into the fold on June 21, 1956. Randy Eugene was the youngest of 13 children born to his parents, Elmer Marion and Elaine (Hall) Bisard, at Hackley Hospital. The hospital gave his parents a bit of a problem when creating the birth certificate as they were concerned that Randy is normally a nickname for Randall, but his mother was persistent in the name she had chosen, so Randy it was. His father chose the middle name of Eugene. For the most part Randy experienced an upbringing that was reflective of the times. He was raised in the family home on Channel Road in Egelston Township alongside his brothers and sisters. Randys father worked as a machinist at Sealed Power while his mother had more than enough to keep her busy at home. From the time he was a young boy Randy was a free spirit with a keen sense of adventure that kept him actively getting into whatever he could. Once he was outside he wasnt seen for hours, but he sometimes turned up at a neighbors house trying to bum a cookie or some other kind of snack. His mother even tied him to the clothesline pole while she was hanging up clothes just to keep him in one spot! Being such a large family the Bisards werent able to take many vacations, but they did enjoy going to fairs, taking trips to the big lake, having dinner at the homes of various relatives, and having other fun-filled adventures together. Randy enjoyed so many of the things that young boys often do. He was best buddies with his brother, Bobby, but some of his other close friends were Jerry Bollenbach, Brian Flowers, and Larry Smith. The first time Randy saw a fire truck up close he was curious about whether the same fire truck would respond to his home if there was an emergency, so he started a fire in the woods just to see. It did, but Randy also got a good spanking in return. As a teen he was with a group from Teen Challenge that went to Johnny Cashs home, and his studio recorded a record for them. For his education Randy attended Carr School Elementary and then Oakridge Jr. High. When the family moved into Muskegon he attended Muskegon High School. Randy initially earned his GED, but he later completed his full diploma in Jacksonville, Alabama. Life was forever changed for Randy when he met a young girl named Debra Smith. He was at the Horseshoe Lounge with his girlfriend that day, but Debra came by and pinched his cheek, calling him cute. They reconnected a month later and began dating. One year later Randy and Debra were married when she was 18 and Randy was 19. Together they were blessed with four children, Randy Lee, Rheannon Sissy, Adam, and Rhonda. Randy and Debra raised their family in Muskegon Heights, and he worked as a driver for various trucking firms. He was also a teamster. There was nothing that brought Randy more joy than being with his family. They looked forward to camping together, especially at Minnie Pond near Hesperia, and during the winter months they usually stayed at hotels from time to time so the kids could have fun using the pool. Randy was an important part of the lives of his children, and he raised them to be self-sufficient, strong, and to respect others. At times other children in their family who were going through hard times came to stay with them, and Randy quickly became a favorite uncle. Later in life he was thrilled to become a grandfather to the 14 grandchildren he loved more than life itself. Although his marriage later ended in divorce, Randy was forever grateful for the family they shared. He remained close to his in-laws and contined to send flowers on mother-in law day. Randy's nieces and nephews considered him the "Uncle of all Uncles" The list of things that made Randy such an extraordinary man is extensive. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved his Harley, boating, music, and camping. Randy was also known for having a special place in his heart for animals. In fact, he even raised a pet raccoon and had squirrels eating out of his hand! He could come across as bit a tough, but in reality he was sensitive with a heart that was as big as they come. Randy was the sort of man who would do anything for anyone. Later in life Randy experienced both peaks and valleys along the way. He was blessed with the companionship of Judy Flowers with whom he enjoyed doing so many things. With plans of enjoying his sunset years to the fullest, it was just a few months ago that Randy was diagnosed with cancer. Although he vowed to fight it with everything he had in him, the cancer spread rapidly, and victory was not to be for Randy. A thoughtful, kindhearted, and fun-loving man, Randy Bisard was a gift to countless others who were within his reach. He was a devoted family man and true friend who continually put the needs of others ahead of himself. Randy was courageous and comforting, honest and strong. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered. Randy E. Bisard died Tuesday, February 19, 2013. Randys family includes his sons, Randy Lee Bisard, Adam (Fianc Chantill) Bisard; daughters, Rheannon "Sissy" (John) Andrade, Rhonda Bisard; stepson, Logan Flowers; 14 grandchildren; sister, Linda (Gary) Lamar; brothers, Fred, Jim, Jimmy, Wayne, Richard, Bobby; several in-laws, nieces and nephews that adored him; ex wife, Debra Smith; and fianc, Judy Flowers. Randy was preceded in death by his parents and 6 brothers and sisters. Services will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2013, 1:00 p.m. at the Clock Chapel - Muskegon with Rev. Chip Hackney officiating. Interment at Egelston Township Cemetery. Visit with Randys family and friends on Friday, 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at Clock Funeral Home - Muskegon. Memorial donations can be made to the family to defray funeral expenses. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to leave a memory or sign the online guest book.