Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Randy Lerew Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Randy Lerew
Sponsored by Kathy Lerew, wife and best friend.
Kathy Lerew
June 13, 2024
Every year, we still celebrate Christmas Eve fondue. Mike joined us in 2023. He lost Debbie in May of 2023. We reminisced about past Christmases. You will always be missed. Love, Kathy
Kathy Lerew
June 26, 2022
Today would have been our 40th wedding anniversary. Today was a sad and surreal day; in stark contrast to that happy and hopeful day 40 years ago.
Kathy Lerew
June 13, 2020
June 13, 2020
Today marks 15 years since we lost Randy. Back in 2005, I purchased an Atlanta Braves memorial brick, for placement outside Turner Field. Unfortunately, over time, this brick faded and was no longer readable. When the Braves new stadium, Truist Park opened in 2017, new memorial bricks were placed in front of the stadium, along the first base side. In October 2018, Michael and I visited the stadium to locate Randys memorial brick. We searched for nearly half an hour, but couldnt find it. I then decided to take a video of all the memorial bricks. I just recently reviewed this video, and lo and behold, found Randys brick. This pic is a screenshot from that video. Braves baseball was Randys happy place. Im thrilled his Braves brick is home again. Hopefully, this brick will endure time and weather better than the last one. Miss you Randy!
Kathy Lerew
June 13, 2019
Fourteen years. So hard to wrap my head around. Michael and I are now living in Spokane, Washington. Even though Florida is 3,000 miles away, you are with us every day. We miss you every day. Love, Kathy & Michael
Can't Wait for Cake!
Kathy Lerew
June 16, 2015
Forever Fifty
A Ten Year Tribute to Randy Lerew
Ten years ago this month, all who knew Randy, lost a friend, a neighbor, an uncle, nephew, brother-in-law, brother, devoted father and husband.
Michael and I reminisce about Randy nearly every day. We share anecdotes, talk about what we miss most about Randy, what Randy has missed, and curse the cruelty of a life unfinished. We keep Randy close and continue to honor his legacy; even in the smallest of ways.
Randy, a healthy man of 50, spent the last eight months of his life waging a hard-fought battle against brain cancer. Throughout his illness, he never gave up hope, and rarely complained. Randy paid no heed to the pessimistic predictions of his less than optimistic doctors. Randy was not a quitter. His optimism sustained him throughout his illness, even as he became blind, bedridden and his body weakened from the cancer and chemotherapy.
In 1994, Randy put his law enforcement career on hold to become a stay-at-home dad. He took his role as Michael's caregiver very seriously, and found it both fulfilling and energizing. He became a parent advocate, school volunteer, coach; and kept the home fires burning. His duties as Vice President of the Debary Woods HOA kept him from falling victim to a common pitfall of the stay-at-home dad, isolation. As chief cook and bottle washer, Randy could fix anything from broken bird feeders to bruised egos.
I miss Randy's likeability, intellect, cheerful and charitable nature, his cooking. Yes, I even miss his sometimes-corny jokes. Memories frozen in time, I see Randy excitedly adding coins to his fledgling coin collection; trying out a new chicken recipe; fishing along the Potomac River; hiking up Anna Ruby Falls; hiking down a rainy Kennesaw Mountain; perusing Renninger's; the smell of homegrown green onions; coaching little league; the battlefields of Gettysburg; steaks on the grill; his love of history and Brave's baseball; Christmas Eve fondue; a backyard bridge; bike rides; Stetson Men's basketball; the USS Yorktown; Friday afternoon trips to Blockbuster and Debary Diner.
Randy would not live to share the JROTC experience with Michael during high school. Having served in the U.S. Army, Randy would have been an eager and involved parent volunteer. I owe a debt of gratitude to the JROTC instructors, and others at Deltona High, as well as the Stetson Men's Basketball coaching staff, for their time, compassion and support, as Michael struggled to reconcile a future without his role model and father. Michael found it noteworthy to mention in this paragraph, that when Randy received his honorable discharge from the Army, he had reached the rank of Sergeant. Michael too, reached the rank of Cadet Sergeant while in JROTC. In 2010, Michael reached a major milestone when he graduated from Deltona High, cum laude.
What grieving taught me about grief: The death of a spouse creates an enormous and seemingly unfillable void. No person, place or thing will ever fill this void. The void can only be filled from within. Grief cannot be pushed aside, nor masked with pills or alcohol. No words comfort. The path towards healing and reconciliation is a painful journey, best traveled alone; drawing on inner strength and faith in oneself. In order to grow through grief, it is important to acknowledge that sadness, anger, guilt, and fear are normal emotions, to be embraced and expressed without apology. Taking it one day at a time, with time, the pain lessens; happiness and hope return. Memories bring a smile, instead of tears. Sunny days outnumber the sad. Life eases forward.
Randy was committed to his family, his friends, and his community. He was an unpretentious and unselfish man living in an increasingly self-centered society. This decent, affable, and helpful man left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Randy liked people, and people liked him. We will miss him always.
Love, Kathy & Michael
In Memory of Randy Lerew: September 7, 1954 June 13, 2005
Michael Lerew
September 7, 2014
Happy Birthday, Dad. Ten years ago we celebrated your last birthday with us. It rained that day. It's raining today.
Love, Michael
Kathy Lerew
September 7, 2014
Happy 60th Birthday, Randy. Missing you today.
Dressing Preppy. Busch Gardens, October 1981.
Kathy Lerew
September 7, 2014
June 26, 2014
Happy Anniversary. Would have been 32 years today. Love, Kathy
Kathy Lerew
December 30, 2012
It was all the many Lerew Christmas traditions we honored this year, as always, that kept you near us. Missing you always.
Love, Kathy & Michael
Michael is still a kid when it comes to Christmas.
Kathy Lerew
December 30, 2012
Kathy Lerew
September 8, 2012
Happy Birthday, Randy. In your memory, Michael and I had dinner at Brian's BBQ for the first time in a long, long time. It felt strange without you at the table with us. We miss you always.
Love, Kathy & Michael
June 26, 1982 - St. Matthews Episcopal Church
Kathy Lerew
June 26, 2012
June 26, 2012: Thinking about everything today. Happy Anniversary on what would have been our 30th. I remember how much you looked forward to this milestone.
Love,
Kathy
Kathy Lerew
June 19, 2012
June 17, 2012
Happy Father's Day, Randy. Today, you are very much in our thoughts, along with your Dad and my Dad.
Love,
Kathy & Michael
June 26, 2011
The month of June:
Beginning with June 13th, Michael and I have marked several events/anniversaries this month, and paused to reflect how much you are missed.
We drove over to St. Pete the weekend of Father's Day. We stayed with Carol. The morning of Father's Day, we took white roses to your grave and Dad's. They're within walking distance. After saying goodbye to Carol, we visited Brother Mike; then, at Michael's request, drove up to Clearwater to visit your parent's graves. It appears the cemetery is being better maintained, and had new sod in places that were once covered with sand and fireant hills. Afterwards, we got ice cream at the Dairy Kurl. Can you believe it's still there? We also picked up some Church's chicken and had lunch at Crest Lake Park. On the way back to I-275, Michael spotted Robert's Christmas Wonderland, and wanted to stop and take a look. It's still there as well! Almost an hour later, we were on our way home.
Michael is still saving his money for wrestling school. I started a part time job computer tutoring an older gentleman who has just recently started using a computer.
June 26th would have been our 29th wedding anniversary. At a loss for words, but grateful for the 23 years we had. A few years ago, I took Michael to the little church where we got married. A nice lady in the office let us in, and I was able to describe the entire ceremony to Michael, including my vivid memory of how your knees were knocking, and how I came into the church via a side door, rather than down the aisle. Carol remembered that as well, and gets such a kick out of telling that story.
Michael and I are contemplating moving back to St. Pete when our lease is up here next September. Plenty of time to decide.
You are missed.
Love,
Kathy and Michael
Mike Lerew
June 13, 2011
Six years have come and gone since you left this earth. I know you’re in a better
place, but I still wish you were here with us.
You were a remarkable older brother. We had some great times when we growing up.
I remember when we use to go hunting or target practicing. I remember the Christmas
we both gave each other a rifle. I can remember crashing you 1st bike and your 1st
car. The bike accident leaving me with a scar which helps me remember. I have many great memories
We had a close bond.
You will never be forgotten.
Your brother Mike
November 16, 2010
Happy Belated Birthday Randy,
I certainly didn't forget your birthday back in September; more about that in a minute.
Today is my birthday, and seeing how our birthdays always fell on the same day of the week, I thought it appropriate to send you a belated birthday wish today.
We sold the house on Hollow Pine in September. We moved during the week of your birthday and closed on September 23rd. The 23rd happened to be the ten year anniversary of our move to Florida. It was a long, hot and emotionally draining summer. It was incredibly hard leaving that house; so many memories. I took pictures of every room before leaving. I had good intentions of videotaping; but the the 22 year old camcorder did not cooperate. It's kaput. Michael and I held a farewell ceremony of sorts before leaving the house for the last time. Michael also spent about an hour alone in the house saying his goodbyes, while I waited in the garage.
We are renting a house in Deltona. It's a very nice house, and had been well cared for by its previous occupants. (owners) We sold, gave away or threw away a lot of "stuff" and to tell you the truth, boy did it feel good. I had four yard sales this summer. The extra money helped. This house is a 3/2 and even though a smaller house, is all the room Michael and I need. I enjoy looking out the kitchen window and seeing grass, trees and birds. There are some beautiful live oaks in this neighborhood. Our neighbors are very friendly, and it seems to be close knit neighborhood.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, Michael graduated Cum Laude in May. He's taking some "time off" so to speak, while he considers his options. He wants an HDTV for Christmas, and tells me if you were here now, we would have already purchased one. I'm thinking of giving him socks and underwear instead.
This move was the first without you. That was both strange and scary. Even five years later Randy, it's a daily struggle. Still taking it one day at a time.
Michael is taking me to the Pancake Mill at Deleon Springs today for my birthday. I think I'll head to Publix later to get a birthday cake. There's a Publix about two miles away, and a Winn Dixie right around the corner. You should be very proud of me that I am now using more coupons and "buy one get one free" offers. There are a lot of websites that make coupons available and printable.
The neighbors across the street have invited us to Thanksgiving Dinner. Everyone across the street live on Lake Sixma. Michael has a beautiful view of the lake from his bedroom window. We love taking walks in this neighborhood. Wish you were here to enjoy the walks with us.
We will light a candle for you on Thanksgiving; we miss your cooking. We miss you more than know.
Love,
Kathy and Michael
Mike Lerew
September 7, 2010
It's already been five years since you left us. Seems like an eternity. Even though I continue to go on with the hustle and bustle of everyday life I stop and think of you often.
Even though I can't see you in person any longer you are still in my heart.
Your son has grown to be quite a nice intelligent young man. Kathy seems to be doing alright although quite busy right now. Your brothers and their wifes are doing well. Your niece and nephews are growing fast. Debbie and I are doing ok.
I miss you brother.
Mike
June 21, 2010
Father's Day 2010:
Happy Father's Day Randy. We miss you.
Michael and I traveled to St. Pete and Bay Pines this weekend. Carol came with us. Dad passed away on March 29th, and Carol is scheduling a burial for him at Bay Pines in October. She has relatives from Australia that want to attend; but October is the earliest they can arrange to fly to the states. A memorial service was held for Dad on April 3rd.
After we left Bay Pines, we had lunch at the Columbia Restaurant, at the Pier. During lunch, Michael and I toasted you and wished you a Happy Father's Day.
Michael graduated from high school on May 23rd!! It was a big deal, as you can well imagine. I was thinking about you the entire ceremony, and I am sure Michael was as well. Our mood was celebratory, yet somber, because you were not here. Your brother Mike attended Michael's graduation, as did a family friend. Afterwards, we walked over to Ocean Walk and had lunch at Johnny Rockets. Michael received a number of cards and nice gifts. While on the subject of Michael, he wants to buy an HDTV. His rationale is that you would have bought one by now, if you were here.
You are in our thoughts this Father's Day.
Love,
Kathy & Michael
December 27, 2009
Merry Christmas Randy.
Christmas #5 without you. Christmas will never be the same for Michael and me. Michael has a new computer and of course, new games were at the top of his Christmas Wishlist. It rained Christmas Day, but was warm enough to open windows. Today is cold and cloudy. Almost looks like it could start snowing any minute.
We hung your stocking and lit a candle for you Christmas Day. We had the traditional Lerew Fondue Christmas Eve; but I deviated somewhat by serving garlic breadsticks instead of Texas Toast. Christmas Day dinner was turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole; and of course, Sister Shubert rolls. We have a lot of leftovers.
I retired on September 30th. I enjoy the free time and being stress-free; though I am looking for a part time job.
Michael is still on track to graduate next Spring. Where we go from there is TBD. In the meantime, we take it one day at a time.
You are in our thoughts this holiday season. We miss you very much.
Love, Kathy & Michael
September 7, 2009
September 7, 2009
Happy Birthday Randy. We mourn your absence and that you can't be here to celebrate your 55th birthday. Michael and I are headed up to St. Augustine today. We plan to have dinner at Caddy Shack; remembering of course, how much all three of us enjoyed our first visit there.
Retirement is right around the corner for me. You aren't here to chart our course, and light the way, which will make that day all the more bittersweet; if not somber.
You will be in our thoughts today.
Love,
Kathy and Michael
June 21, 2009
Today, Michael and I will be remembering our last Father's Day together as a family, June 2004
Happy Father's Day, Randy
Love, Kathy & Michael
Mike Lerew
June 13, 2009
Four years seems to have gone by so fast. Time makes things easier but cannot erase you from my thoughts. I think of you often Randy and wish you were still here.
It's still hard to believe that you left us at such relatively young age. I would have expected you to outlive us all.
Well one day we'll all be together again.
Love you bro
June 13, 2009
June 13, 2009
We are in St. Petersburg, visiting Bay Pines National Cemetery to honor and remember Randy, on the fourth anniversary of his passing.
Although it's been four years, I've felt no sense of time; it stands still.
Michael passed the math FCAT last October and only has one class and one year left until graduation.
I plan to retire at the end of this year, and considering my options. I started dating again last October. To date, I've only dated nine bachelors in as many months. Suffice it to say, I could write a book about this amusing aspect of my life. I was incredibly lucky to have been married to you Randy for 23 years. I will probably never be that lucky again.
We love and miss you dearly, and you remain in our thoughts every day.
Love,
Kathy & Michael
September 7, 2008
September 7, 2008
Happy Birthday Randy. A year again already. Michael and I miss you so very much. We will be headed to the Ozarks or New England this Fall; I hope. I am also considering putting the house on the market; although this isn't the best of times for doing so. I would like to find a small bungalow near downtown Orlando. Its time to simplify. Your USF Bulls license plate still adorns the Lerewmobile; except the Lerewmobile is now a Honda Civic, as I traded in the Montana van back in March. I get many favorable comments about USF. The Bulls beat UCF last night, by the way.
You are never far from my thoughts. I will light a candle for you on this special day.
Love,
Kathy
June 15, 2008
Happy Father's Day 2008:
Randy was a family man, first and foremost. Although he graduated from college to pursue a career in law enforcement, and did so for a number of years, it was his role as stay-at-home Dad and caregiver to Michael that he was most comfortable and enjoyed most. As a parent advocate he was actively involved in ensuring Michael received the education he deserved in the public school system. Randy kept the home fires burning. How many men do you know who subscribe to Southern Living magazine? And oh, how Randy loved food. He was a regular at Debary Diner every Friday night. (prime rib night) Randy made our house a home; no matter where we called home. Randy could fix everything from broken bird feeders to bruised egos. Randy had all the answers.
I now believe Randy probably belonged in another time. A kinder, gentler time. His goodness, generosity and trusting nature were rare qualities in our, "me first" culture. I marveled at how easily he made friends; so unlike me. He was a lover of people; and people loved him. He served his country, his community and was totally devoted to his family. Randy was an unselfish man living in a self-centered society. He was forever an optimist, forever happy and will be forever deeply missed.
Love,
Kathy and Michael
December 25, 2007
December 25, 2007
Merry Christmas Randy,
It was a beautiful Christmas sunrise this morning. Its a tad chilly, and the sky actually looks like it could begin snowing any minute.
Michael and I did the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party thing last week. At one point, it was both snowing and raining on Main Street. We had a good time, and definitely took advantage of the free cocoa and sugar cookies being served throughout the park.
Last night's fondue dinner was obviously not the same without you. I am becoming a little more proficient in the kitchen; but, oh how I could so use your help. I bought too much meat. Almost every house in the subdivision was decorated in lights this year. And yes, including ours. Candles in the windows and for the first time in four years, we hung the wreath. Also for the first time in many years, we bought a live Christmas tree. Its a little lean and crooked, but hanging in there.
Next year will be a bittersweet year for both Michael and I; so much to look forward to, but painful at the same time, because you aren't here. Distancing ourselves from the enormity of your absence has been a slow and painful journey. Michael and I think about you every day. Please continue sending us strength and guidance to make it through the year ahead.
Over the summer, I bought a high end digital camera, and have renewed my interest in photography. Not that taking up a hobby could ever replace a husband, but you did encourage me, remember?
Michael will be trying out for the weightlifting team in January. He has become quite the fitness fanatic. He has made new friends at DHS who were on the team last year. He wants to go to the Senior Prom; but hasn't found the right girl to ask... yet.
We will light a candle for you today.
Love,
Kathy & Michael
September 7, 2007
September 7, 2007
Happy Birthday Randy,
Michael and I thought of you often today. We actually laughed remembering when hurricane Frances upstaged your birthday in 2004. I can't even remember what your cake looked like. You were so worried about the roof. I wanted to videotape every wind gust. You were such a good sport about the whole thing.
We will light a candle for you today.
Love,
Kathy and Michael
June 16, 2007
June 17, 2007
Happy Father's Day Randy.
In remembrance of Father's Day, and the day we lost you, (June 13, 2005) I wanted you to know that what the heart has once known, it shall never forget. I only ask that you never forget us.
I used my MySpace profile to put together a pictorial memorial for you this year. I spent a whole day sifting through many photographs, some dating back to the early 80s, that I then scanned and uploaded. It became quite painful at times to look at these photos. The grief is still intense even two years later. Afterwards, I realized I want to work harder at focusing on how you lived and not how you died. That memory is still so fresh; and its interfering with the importance of celebrating your life. Michael and I have talked about you often this week, sharing good memories from happier times. That's certainly a step in the right direction.
Love,
Kathy & Michael
Pat Schiappa
June 13, 2007
It has been two years since your departure from this plane. I still regret not knowing you better but do know you were a loving, kind, and generous father and husband.
In memory,
Pat
Kathy
December 24, 2006
Christmas 2006
Randy,
The year has gone by so fast, and here it is once again, Christmas Eve. We miss you so much; a second Christmas without you is no less painful than the first.
Michael and I are preparing for your annual Christmas Eve fondue. I've told Michael he can have a beer with his dinner. Afterwards, we are going out to look at Christmas lights.
I bought a pre-cooked turkey breast, and will try to put an edible Christmas dinner together tomorrow. Michael wanted a bench press for Christmas. We went out to Sports Authority the other day and picked one out. Tomorrow, after presents, and before dinner, we get to put it together. Boy, its times like this we really miss you. You would have this thing put together in less than an hour. I'll struggle with it most of the day.
Karen and Michael invited us over for dinner the other night. She served crabcakes, pigs in a blanket and a lot of assorted sweets. I got tired and left early, but Michael stayed until almost midnight. Lynn and Dave were also there.
Michael and I went to NYC last May. In November, we took another Thanksgiving cruise. I ate duck and got sick. Other than that, it was a great cruise. I wish I could have talked you into taking one; you may have been pleasantly surprised how much there is to do while onboard. I went to Sofia, Bulgaria to do a computer upgrade. I should have been terrified having to make such a long flight, but strangely enough, I did quite well. Michael held down the fort, and did fairly well. He has a teenage lazy streak he needs to outgrow, and I'm hoping my weeklong trip was a good learning experience for him. I am hoping for the opportunity to go to Barbados and Budapest, Hungary.
Next year, I hope to have a couple of rooms upstairs painted. Otherwise, the house is holding up well, though its still painfully empty without you here. The night I returned from Bulgaria and walked into the family room, I sensed your presence; as if you had never left us.
We will set you a place at the table tonight and light candles. Thank you for looking out for us this past year; I know you have been sending us strength and guidance, and without it, we couldn't come as far as we have.
I think of you every day, and talk to you often, and will continue to as we turn the corner into a new year. Please don't ever forget us.
Merry Christmas
Love,
September 8, 2006
September 7th,
Happy Birthday Randy.
We thought of you often today. Remembering your past birthdays and of happier times, is not easing the pain of your absence. Perhaps someday those memories will comfort us, but for now, we miss you very much and still struggle to make sense of your suffering and death.
Love, Kathy and Michael
j f
September 7, 2006
Happy Earthly Birthday Randy :)
June 26, 2006
June 26, 2006
Happy 24th anniversary Randy. Today though, is no different than any other in that I miss you, and thought about you often.
Love,
Kathy
June 17, 2006
June 18, 2006
Happy Father’s Day
Dad,
Miss you very much this Father’s Day. We are going to Bay Pines today to put white roses at your grave.
I missed you most this school year, while I was in JROTC. You would have enjoyed it as much as I did. I told Mom you would have become a parent volunteer and been very involved with it. We had car washes and BBQ dinners and parents were asked to help. Mom tried her best. You would like the LTC and Sergeant Wilson. They would like you too. Both of them have interesting Army careers and all of you would have some interesting stories to share. It hurts so much that you are not here sharing JROTC with me.
I am playing in a basketball league this summer. We played our first game Friday, but we lost. My right knee is doing much better. Sometimes I wear a knee brace, but I can tell the knee is stronger. I am going to two basketball camps this summer too. The coaches have been very supportive.
Today will be hard for Mom and me. I hope you know that we are doing okay, but miss you. I hope you are happy and never forget about us.
Love,
Michael
Mike Lerew
June 13, 2006
To my Dear Brother Randy,
Anniversaries are usually a time of happy reflection. The 1 year anniversary of your passing does give me pause and reminds me of the many good times we had together. It also reminds me how long it’s been since I last saw you and the 8 month struggle that you had to endure.
It’s still hard to this day to believe you’re gone and how fast the last year went by.
I think of you often and wish you were still here. One day we’ll all be together again. It’ll be a great big family get together. Say hi to Mom and Dad.
Father’s day will be here soon. I will be thinking of dad and you on father’s day. I will also be thinking of Kathy and Mike and how father’s day will affect them without you there. I know they miss you very much.
You will always be in my thoughts and prayers,
Your brother Mike
June 13, 2006
June 13, 2006
Randy,
We still mourn and miss you terribly, but know you are comforted and healed by the angels you walk with now.
Michael and I talked yesterday and are confident you are healing and evolving, while we on the other hand, still struggle to make sense of it all. We cannot yet accept this huge void in our lives.
Michael enjoyed JROTC and earned himself five medals and awards. He also passed FCAT Reading this year. Unfortunately, he was a few points shy of passing the FCAT Math. He is going to put his nose to the grindstone next year during Intensive Math to ensure he passes FCAT next year. He also took the SATs for the first time this year. It was a dry run; and he plans to take them again next year, and again in his senior year. Michael ended the year with a weighted GPA of 3.875. Of course, he wanted, "prizes". I took him to New York City over Memorial Day weekend. I know you could have cared less about ever visiting NYC, and I thought many times during the trip how stressed you would have been in the big city. Let me tell you, NYC is on the opposite end of the universe from Jamestown, North Dakota. I don't know either, that you would have enjoyed a Broadway show. However, you would have enjoyed touring the USS Intrepid, the Concorde and seeing the American Museum of Natural History and Hayden Planetarium. We thought of you as we visited these sights, and as we strolled Central Park.
The hot tub is working again. Didn't cost a thing. Had a bad fuse, and Doug the pool guy, replaced for free. Michael and I use the hot tub all the time. While Michael was at Stetson Basketball camp last weekend, I hopped in the pool AND the hot tub. Almost felt like I was on vacation - in my own backyard, no less. I keep an eye on the live oak and will trim it again, if it appears branches will soon be looming over the pool screen. Once a month, I hear you telling me to change the A/C air filters. We now have a termite bond. Thanks to your hard work, no termites have ever made it into the house; but now I would feel better having the bond. When it comes time to sell the house (not any time soon) that bond will definitely attract potential buyers.
Michael and I are determined to become stronger, because we know that's what you would want. You would be proud of the fact I'm doing a better job of standing up for myself. Both of us choose to surround ourselves with only positive, happy, and helpful people.
We will light candles for you today and promise to remember only the many good memories, before the tumor, that are here for all of us, for always.
Love,
Kathy & Michael
Pat Schiappa
June 12, 2006
Randy,
It has been a year since you have moved on to another plane;
I still wish I had known you better
But from what I am told,
You had a huge heart of gold
Your spirit of genorousity was everybody's gain;
Compassion, understanding, faithfulness and love were included in your personality's letter
You are missed, I know
Once again, please say, "Hi" to my mom in Heaven's flow...
Michael Lerew
December 25, 2005
Dear Dad,
It was hard not having you here this Christmas. We miss you very much. Christmas will never be the same without you here. I never really said a goodbye. It was sort of a long goodbye.
I got a new game for Christmas called World of Warcraft. I think I will enjoy it but, I won't enjoy it as much as I would if you were here. There's a present under the tree for you as well.
Thinking of you always. Merry Christmas Dad.
Love, Michael
Christmas Eve 2003
Kathy Lerew
December 25, 2005
Merry Christmas Randy,
It is Christmas Day. Its 8:30am and Michael is still asleep. So different from only a few years ago, when Michael would bound out of bed at 6:00am on Christmas morning.
You already know we had our annual fondue Christmas Eve dinner last night, as we felt your presence. I will never put together as wonderful a dinner as you did, but I did the best I could. Michael didn't care for the wine. Just as well. He even tripped over the extension cord to the fondue pot; something you were so worried about every year. Nothing happened! The fondue pot did not fly off the table and splatter us with hot oil.
After fondue dinner, Michael and I drove around Debary looking at Christmas lights. We were gone over an hour and went through the Country Club and Glen Abbey. Michael actually drank more wine than I did, and it started to hit him around 7:30, when he complained about being very sleepy.
I know this year you would have liked family here for Christmas, but no one was able to make it. It was Michael, me and the Cici. Dad and Carol had invited us over for Christmas Day dinner, but we declined. We're going over next weekend instead. Michael and I will set a place for you at the dinner table. We ordered a pre-cooked turkey dinner from Publix.
This holiday season has been incredibly hard, as Michael and I miss you very much. The house is so empty and I don't think I will ever adjust. I thought I heard you shuffling down the upstairs hallway, in your bedroom slippers last night.
For the first time in 18 years, we are not going to camcorder Christmas morning. You're not here to set up the tripod; and in the future, Michael and I will need no reminders of our first Christmas without you. Like so much that happened this year, it will be a memory that will never leave us or fade with time.
I am attaching a photo of you and Michael from Christmas Eve 2003; a happy memory during a happier time; before the tumor.
I know you are celebrating a joyous Christmas in heaven with family. That reassures us somewhat, but obviously, we would rather have you here with us. We will light candles for you today.
We love and miss you always.
Kathy & Michael
Tony Schiappa
September 18, 2005
Here's To Randy,
On your birthday we will of course
remember what a devoted father and
beloved husband you were and will consider that your spirit will continue in peace and goodness.
You are still missed and loved.
J F
September 16, 2005
Randy,
Your spirit and legacy lives on through your lovely wife and precious son. Although, I never knew you...I know that are loved VERY MUCH.
The Lord must like Southern Living recipes too...perhaps He needed you to cook them :)
Lastly, I pray for peace that surpasses all understanding to surround Kathy and Michael until they are return home with you.
God bless, JF
Mike Lerew
September 7, 2005
Randy,
You may no longer be here in person, but you'll always be close to my heart. Although your life may have been shortened it was never the less full and I have many fond memories.
We must remember it's not how long you live but how much you live and you lived a lot in your 50 short years. I'm proud to have had you as an older brother.
I wish you were here so that I could wish you a happy birthday in person.
Happy 51st Birthday Big Brother.
Kathy Lerew
September 7, 2005
Happy Birthday Randy.
We miss you very, very much. Michael and I are remembering last year, on your 50th birthday and how we celebrated just before hurricane Frances. Little did we know something more horrible than a hurricane would stricken you a short time later, and that you would not be here to celebrate with us now. If you were here, we would be giving you the same wallet we gave you last year, that you stuck in a drawer and never used.
We will celebrate today with a birthday cake and white candles, in the kitchen of course. We now call the kitchen area the relationship corner of the house. The name coined by Glen Klausner. Even with the recent natural and man-made catastrophes in Louisiana and Mississippi, which have captured our attention and saddens us greatly, Michael and I think about you constantly, every day. We are slowly beginning to remember and talk about happier times, before your BT, as we know that is what you would want us to do.
Happy 51st birthday.
Love, Kathy and Michael
Pat Schiappa
September 3, 2005
I am so sorry, Randy, that you are not here on this Earth to enjoy your 51st birthday.
I really wish I had gotten to have known you better. I am so sorry for that. But from talking to others, I know you were the perfect loving husband, father, and friend.
Even in the last stages of your illness, you never complained. You even apologized, as if the illness was your fault. It wasn't.
I will never forget the brief time we did spend together in Minneapolis. It was very enjoyable.
Say hi to Kathy's and my mom up there, please.
Memories forever,
Pat
mark chase
July 10, 2005
I remember spending time with Randy when he visited us in Rapid City when we were both young. I didn't keep much contact over the year's kind of went our seperate way's. I do have memories of that time and was sorry to get the new's of his passing. I wish all of his family the very best in the future. Take care, Mark
Larry and Arlene Chase
July 4, 2005
We first met Randy when he was just a little fellow, one of 4 boys, exactly like we had. He was as cute as a button. We didn't get to see him much as we lived quite a distance apart. Years later, Randy came to Arizona and spent a few days with us, connecting with his Chase cousins. Our boys, Dale, Kent, Jim and Doug played pool, ping-pong and I think even some golf with Randy. We enjoyed his visit and regret that we didn't spend more time together. I believe he was around 19 or 20 at that time. I know he was a fine man, and will be greatly missed. We truly wish we would have spent more time getting better acquainted with Randy. In e mailing back and forth with Kathy, we felt that she was a wonderful wife to him, and we are hopeful that we will get to know her personally and their son Michael as well. We are very sorry for your deep sorrow and our prayers are with you.
Aunt Arlene and Uncle Larry
Mike Lerew
June 25, 2005
To my brother Randy,
You were a great brother and a close friend. Over the past 8 months I thought of you all the time and prayed for a miracle everyday. I'm glad I was able to spend time with you. I was very sad to see you go. You'll be missed dearly. After all you were my one and only older brother.
I think you helped us all realize that life is short. We should all enjoy the time we have on this earth and not take life for granted. We should not let the past stop us from letting the ones we love know it, for there are not always more tomorrows.
I have fond memories of the times we'd go fishing, target shooting
and hunting. Also the fondue dinners we shared. I will always remember those times. Those were the simpler days.
Give Mom and Dad a Great Big Hug for me. I look forward to the day we can all meet again.
Love, your little brother, Mike
- or Mickey as you always called me
Ed Schiappa
June 21, 2005
I did not know Randy well, and only spent time with him in person a handful of times. Yet that was enough for me to know that he was, as Kathy says, a terrific husband and father, an optimist and a good soul. The world is poorer without him, and I know I will always regret not getting to know him better. His life was his gift to us all, and we should all be very grateful.
Patrick Schiappa
June 21, 2005
I'm very sorry for your loss. I'll always remember the good times we had in Minneapolis...
Kathleen Lerew
June 20, 2005
Because the black cloud of cancer has hung over the Lerew household for what seems a lifetime, I have found it difficult these last few days, to remember life before that cloud overshadowed our lives. I do not want to dwell on Randy’s illness, but believe it important people know a little about Randy’s fight these last eight months. He was a healthy, hearty man of 50 who waged a very hard-fought battle against a brain tumor. Throughout his illness, he never gave up hope, never complained once about his illness, his treatments, or their ugly side effects. He wasn’t crazy about the Hoyer lift, or parachute as he called it, but realized its necessity. Important also, is the fact he ignored the pessimistic predictions of a few very stupid doctors. Randy was not a quitter. Randy believed a better treatment or cure for brain cancer was just around the next corner. Randy was an eternal optimist. It was his optimism that sustained him these last eight months, even as he became blind, bedridden and his body weakened from the tumor and chemotherapy. He never showed fear or sorrow; hoping for the day his vision would improve so he could resume his coin collecting, read his favorite recipes and see his family. He looked forward to the day his legs would strengthen and he would again walk upstairs to sit on his balcony, coffee cup in hand, and wave to passing neighbors.
Randy was a family man, first and foremost. Although he graduated from college to work in law enforcement, and did so for a number of years, it was his role as stay-at-home Dad and caregiver to Michael that he was most comfortable and enjoyed most. He was a parent advocate, always concerned and actively involved in ensuring Michael received the education he deserves in the public school system. He was so committed to teaching Michael the difference between right and wrong, good and bad, just and unjust. He taught by example; he practiced what he preached. He kept the home fires burning. I will always remember the Randy who subscribed to Southern Living magazine, and loved to try new recipes to surprise and please Michael and me. The Randy who loved to prepare fried chicken and baby back ribs on the grill. He ate prime rib every Friday from Debary Diner; even up to the last week of his life. His favorite holiday meal was the traditional Lerew Christmas Eve fondue. I will remember all twenty-three that we celebrated. I will always remember the Randy who could fix anything from broken bird feeders to bruised egos. I will always remember the Randy who made our house a home wherever home was. As casual and down-to-earth as Randy was; he was an intellectual, and probably the most intelligent person I have ever known. He had all the answers.
Plainly stated, Randy was an optimistic, helpful, happy guy who made friends easily and liked people. He was devoted to his family. He served his country, his community and his subdivision. He trusted and was trusted; he loved and was loved; he was a perfectionist, though not always perfect; successful even when he didn’t succeed. He was an unselfish man living in a self-centered society. He gave but never gave up. He was forever an optimist, forever happy and will be forever missed.
Love, Kathy & Michael
Judy Bergevine
June 16, 2005
forever conversation every Friday night, "a big, big juicy big piece of prime rib" Will miss you Randy, I had already missed you before you went home to the Lord, You will be forever a piece of DeBary Diner .
Love Judy
Showing 1 - 52 of 52 results
Make a Donation
in Randy Lerew's name
Memorial Events
for Randy Lerew
Funeral services provided by:
Allen-Summerhill Funeral Home & Crematory - DeLand126 E New York Avenue, DeLand, FL 32724
How to support Randy's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Randy Lerew's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
