Randy "Rj" Spyker

Perhaps by chance, or mere circumstance, there are some people who walk into our lives and our hearts are never the same. Whether loving family member or friend near or far, Randy Spyker was one of those special individuals who loved unconditionally and gave from the heart. Through kind and caring ways, he easily conveyed his feelings towards others. It wasn't unlike him to drop everything to help a friend, or tell his family in numerous ways how much he loved them. For these things and so much more, he will be deeply missed. Although tensions continued to flare overseas, the 1950s marked a quieter, more stable time in America. The baby boom found families moving into newly developed suburbs, and with the increasing number of women entering the workforce, the introduction of TV dinners was a welcome addition. Amidst these changing times, a most welcome event in the life of Margaret (Perkins) Spyker was the January 25, 1954 birth of her beloved son, Randy. Born in Battle Creek, Michigan, Randy was the youngest and joined his older siblings, Ralph and Sandi. His mother supported their family working for GTE as a business professional. Like many young boys, Randy enjoyed many adventures with neighborhood friends. As a youngster he loved climbing trees, and was known for killing stink bugs on the silo. He found his share of mischief too, sister - knives....need we say more? He was also known for picking fights in the school yard and shooting his pellet gun at things he wasn't supposed to. Randy was often referred to as "RJ", and during his formative years he and his family moved often throughout Michigan. He attended the area schools, which included the communities of Paw Paw, Mattawan, South Haven and St. Louis, Michigan. Ever the outgoing and fun-loving boy, Randy made friends easily wherever he went. When they moved to South Haven, he was the first kid in the area to have a skateboard which made him extra cool. When it came to his studies, Randy was smart, too smart for his own good at times. School tended to bore him, Even while in middle school, Randy's quick wit and precarious ways found him hustling college aged girls! As a young man he loved fishing, as well as camping and the beach. He especially enjoyed bowling with his mom. As a family they delighted traveling to the Upper Peninsula even before the completion of the Mackinaw Bridge. A love for travel caught Randy early in life. Although he went on to attend St. Louis High School, Randy earned his GED later after leaving his schooling behind. With a desire for adventure in his blood, Randy took this time to spread his wings. From the ages of 17 to 20, he hitchhiked across the country a total of nine times. Sheri's grandma Escott would get after him about all his hitchhiking and often said he needed to take off his walking shoes and stay in one place. At the age of 17, Randy met Sheri Escott, a 15 year old young lady through some mutual friends. While in Owosso, Michigan, a friend of Sheri's and two other young men picked her up after school. Randy was sitting in the front seat. Noticing he was wearing a wig, she whispered, asking her friend if he actually had a wig on. Her friend told her yes, but not to say anything because Randy thought it was cool. Sheri later found out Randy got into trouble and his step dad had Randy's head shaved. Following that fateful day, Randy and Sheri began an on again, off again dating relationship. Both were quite young, and things got rocky. At age 16, Sheri discovered she was pregnant, and at 19, Randy began serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. The service helped settle his spirit down, and offered him the opportunity to grow up, and fast. Following his honorable discharge, Randy returned home to Michigan and his beloved, Sheri. Deeply in love, they exchanged vows of marriage on October 11, 1977 and looked toward the future. Blessed with the love of two children, Joshua came along in 1973 and Randi Lynn completed their family in 1981. They made their home in the Grand Haven and Spring Lake area where they raised their children. Randy was a loving and caring father. Although strict, he wanted the best for his family. Since he moved often as a kid, his own children were going to grow up in one familiar place and attend the same school system throughout their educational years. Randy was a hard worker and provided well for his family. He was very conscientious about his home, and took pride in caring for his yard and house. Randy was many things to many people. He enjoyed family get-togethers and traditions such as birthdays and holidays, especially their crazy family Christmas'. He loved spending time with Sheri and the kids enjoying great times at Harrison and Long Lakes, and on a trip to Cedar Point. They shared memorable times at Houghton and Torch Lakes where fun was had by all, and nights at home barbequing on the grill. Randy continued his love of fishing, and enjoyed socializing with friends over a cold beer or three. He had many great friends, but those whom he spent the most amount of time with included Steve and Barb Sturgis and family, Brent Garries, Chrystal McGraft and family, Bob and Marryanne Kerridge, and many more. They say growing up is hard to do, but Randy did it well. Deep within his earlier, rambunctious nature, there was a loving and honest man. More than anything, he loved spending time with his family. He also loved his canine companions, Aja, and later, Sadie. Randy gave from the heart and would do anything for anyone. He looked out for others and helped without hesitation, never expecting anything in return. Whether family or friend, he was a caretaker by all accounts. For the first year of his grandson Castor's life, Randy lovingly watched over him each day. He treasured sharing the company of his grandkids watching movies and playing Uno, War, and the Wii. Though their earlier years were a struggle, Randy and Sheri came to share a love many only dream about. Randy adored Sheri, and they spent many wonderful times together. Randy expressed his love for her in many ways. If he wasn't holding her hand or giving her a pat, he was throwing kisses her way every time she walked by or looked at him. His children were his delight and he was very proud of them. Joshua was making a good life for himself and his daughter, Randi Lynn continued to be his adorable, "Little Miss Magic." Randy Spyker was not unlike any other man who was dedicated to his family and friends. Yet it was in Randy's nature to love just a little more, and help a little bit harder than most. His years of mischief during his youth helped shape the man Randy came to be. Genuine and compassionate, he was someone others could look up to and call devoted husband, father, and friend. Gone but never to be forgotten, Randy will be lovingly remembered by many. Mr. Randy "RJ" Spyker, age 60, passed away Wednesday, March 12, 2014. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sheri; children, Joshua (Marcos Oropeza) Spyker of IL, Randi Lynn (Jason) Talsma of Norton Shores; grandchildren, Aliya and David Talsma, Castor Dempsey; brother, Ralph (Maggie) Spyker of Spring Lake; sister, Sandi (Jim) Harvey of Fruitport; nieces and nephews, Devan Harvey, Margaret-Rose Spyker, Anthony Spyker; several cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret; father and mother-in-law, Howard and Lela Escott. SERVICE: Saturday, March 22, 2014, 1:00 PM at the Harbourfront (Portabello) Grand Hall in Grand Haven. MEMORIAL: Every Woman's Place. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to share a favorite memory or photo of Randy and to sign his online guest book.