Randy Traiber

Randy “Rudy Baker” Traiber- a master mechanic, legendary prankster, and devoted father- passed away peacefully on March 27th, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held in Randy’s honor on Sunday, June 14th at The Gage (1139 South 70th St., Milwaukee, WI 53214) from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Randy was born on December 2nd, 1959 to Robert and the late Heather Traiber. He was a middle child of six and naturally took on the role of caretaker to his younger siblings, especially Kelly, who was always by his side. During his adolescent years, Randy could be found tinkering with cars, woodworking, riding his bike or cruising around the neighborhood go-kart track. He was an avid collector of comic books and coins and always enjoyed loud music, fast cars, and Pepsi. His love for Mustangs and Michael Jackson never wavered - he once owned a ’67 Mustang Fastback, which was his favorite car, and he would perfectly mimic MJ’s signature “Whoo” whenever the feeling struck him.

Randy went on to open a successful radiator shop while remaining active through fishing, practicing taekwondo, and participating in pool and dart leagues. When Muscular Dystrophy led him to a wheelchair, his world didn’t shrink - it simply shifted. Through PS5 he stayed connected, spending time gaming with his son-in-law (Jeff), his grandsons (Landin and Vincenzo) and his friends (most notably- Jared, Matt and Zak), whose companionship brought him laughter, purpose, and joy. Between gaming sessions, he enjoyed building computers, cooking, working on model cars or fidgeting with his latest Amazon find.

Randy was a mechanic by trade, a helper by nature and a loyal friend to everyone he met. His talents went far beyond the engine bay as he was forever remodeling and reconstructing— leaving his signature “Randy touch” on every project he finished. His hands were rarely idle as he always made sure to leave everything better than when he found it- be it someone’s vehicle or their rough day. Whether he was lending a tool or his time, Randy never hesitated to help someone in need. Even if you only met him once, he was sure to leave an impression.

Above all else, Randy was a devoted and deeply loving father. His greatest happiness came from being with his daughter, Jessica, who was truly the center of his world. He taught her in the quiet, everyday ways — how to feel safe, how the importance of apologies and forgiveness could mend even the hardest moments, and how love doesn’t need grand gestures to be powerful. Their bond was built on the beautiful consistency of simple things- most dear to them, the many hours spent playing cribbage together. Through daily visits and phone calls, card games and movies, they built a life rich in closeness and comfort. Randy was her steady anchor and her fiercest protector, whose love was felt in every conversation and quiet moment they shared.

Known to many as "Grandpa Randy," he was a true grandfather and mentor to Landin Anderson and Vincenzo Wysocki. He was always ready to teach them about cars, offer his profound wisdom and keep them entertained with his favorite "Creature Feature" movies, from Jurassic Park to Godzilla and King Kong. He and Landin were notorious for staying up late into the night, bonding over video games and large plates of steak. Among Vincenzo’s fondest memories are those of their fishing trips, full of laughter and shenanigans.

Randy is survived by his beloved daughter, Jessica (Jeff) Wysocki; his father, Robert Traiber; and his three loving sisters, Patty (Mark) Hasek, Robin Traiber, and Kelly Traiber. He was a proud uncle to his nephews, Joseph (Carolyn) Hasek, Kyle Traiber, Ryan (Dana) Traiber and Nicholas Traiber. He now joins those who went before him: his mother, Heather Traiber, and his brothers, Terry and Shawn Traiber.

Randy has finally hung up his wrenches, but he left behind a legacy that will stay in our hearts forever. He will be deeply missed by his family, his lifelong friends, and everyone who has had the privilege of knowing him.