Randy Austin

Randolph “Randy” Lee Austin was the youngest of four sons born to Edgar and Morgie (Glidden) Austin. He grew up on the family grape farm and graduated from Mattawan Consolidated High School in 1964. Shortly after graduation, Randy was drafted into the United States Army, and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War era.

Following his service, Randy returned home to the family farm, where he began applying the technical skills he had developed in the military. He went on to work as an electronics specialist for Singer/Friden Corporation, repairing everything from cash registers in Sears department stores to equipment at the Paw Paw Flashes.

In the early 1970s, Randy met the love of his life, Sharon. The two were married in 1971 and took a honeymoon to Canada before returning to Michigan to begin their life together. They eventually settled on the family property known as Glidden Valley Farm, where they raised their family, three sons, Jerry, Andy, and Curtiss, and a daughter, Tammie.

During the years his children were growing up, Randy was also active as a leader in Webelos and Boy Scouts, helping guide and mentor many young men in the Mattawan community.

After corporate restructuring left Randy searching for new opportunities, he partnered with a high school friend to start a business repairing RV and camper refrigeration and air-conditioning systems from a small building on the family farm. Years later, Randy and Sharon became business partners and founded R&S Camper Refrigeration, operating from a new building just outside the village of Mattawan. Known for their honesty and quality service, they built a strong reputation across Michigan and into Indiana. Over time, all three of their sons contributed to the business, with Curtiss eventually continuing on as a permanent part of the company.

As the years passed, Randy and Sharon embraced the “snowbird” lifestyle, spending winters in Punta Gorda, Florida. There, Randy enjoyed time with fellow veterans at the local VFW, friendships at the Eagle’s Lodge, and many rounds of golf. Punta Gorda became a second home, filled with friends, family, and lasting memories.

In 2015, Randy lost his wife of 44 years to complications from surgery. Sharon was the anchor in his life, and her loss impacted him deeply. Not long after, Randy retired and passed the business fully to Curtiss. After several years of wintering in Florida, he made Punta Gorda his full-time home.

Later in life, Randy underwent open-heart surgery and never fully recovered. He eventually returned to the family farm, where he remained until his passing.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Morgie Austin; his brothers, Dale, Don, and Jack Austin; and his daughter, Tammie Austin.

He is survived by his sons, Jerry Austin, Andy (Mary) Austin, and Curtiss Austin; ten grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial service to be determined at a later date.