On September 7, 2023, Randy Jay Van Fleet passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was born to A.E. and Frances Van Fleet on July 9, 1948 in Omaha, Nebraska. Randy was the middle child and brother to David and Beverly.

His father was in the U.S. Air Force and they spent time traveling through the U.S. and Japan. The family moved to Glendale, Arizona when he was in high school. After graduating he attended Arizona State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in political science. Randy was always open for a political discussion and an avid history buff. He was a die hard ASU Sun Devil's fan and was so proud when his daughter Kristin who followed in his footsteps and graduated in 2013.

From 1972 - 74, Randy served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army and was stationed at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. He was the training officer instructing recruits to fire M-16 rifles. He was proud of his contribution to his country by preparing recruits for service.

Randy came to Blythe in 1979 to work as a social worker for the Department of Social Services. He took pride in assisting and the protection of seniors and children. It was there he met his wife Kathy and their office romance began. They married in 1981 and later had their children Alan and Kristin.

Randy enjoyed spending time in the desert four wheeling in his truck and target shooting. He loved his trucks and would modify them with with big tires, loud mufflers and any other accessory that would make it look "bad." Affectionately known by friends as "The Dude," he was also very witty, funny and known for is corny jokes. Randy had a large collection of music and loved blasting tunes while cruising in his truck.

His favorite times were with his family, celebrating birthdays, holidays or just hanging out. He loved the time they spent together and the memories they made. His greatest joy was being Pop Pop to his grandson Atticus. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. We will miss him so very much and he will live in our hearts forever.

He was preceded in death by his parents A.E. and Frances Van Fleet, brother David, and niece Lisa McLaughlin.

He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years Kathy, son Alan and partner Anat; daughter Kristin, son in law Michael and grandson Atticus; sister Beverly Shough and numerous nieces and nephews and many special friends.

We want to thank our Ohana family for all their prayers love and support. Without them and God's strength we would never made it through this most difficult time. Also thanks to our church family and friends who have lifted us up in prayer as well. A special thanks to Dr. Oh and Dr. Chi for their support and wise counsel. To River Valley Hospice nurses Joan and Jessia, who guided us through this heartbreaking process with kindness and compassion, we are forever grateful.

A memorial service will be held on September 20, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Frye Chapel and Mortuary. A reception will be held at the Fletcher residence, 640 Ocotillo.

In lieu of flowers flowers please make donations to Blythe Cancer Resource Center, P.O. Box 1266, Blythe CA 92226