Randy Kessler

February 26, 1948 - December 21, 2024 It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my life partner Randy Kessler. Randy passed from this life on a peaceful Saturday morning, December 21st 2024 in Los Angeles California after a very complicated heart surgery. He was 76. Over the years Randy had survived a number of serious health issues. I am grateful for the extra time we had together. Randy was born in Los Angeles California in 1948. His parents moved to Hawaii where he grew up. Randy attended Punahou High School.
In 1976 Randy met his partner of 49 years, Tony in Hollywood California. It was the start of a very exciting story. Randy had a passion for cars like I have never seen. Especially vintage cars. He could talk about them for hours with anyone who would listen. From his love of cars he built his own business that had not existed before. A "Stylist" for cars. Consultation, research, customizing. He had a tremendous amount of knowledge related to all types of automobiles.
It was not always easy. In the early days it was a struggle, we had no money. Randy would locate cars for clients in New York, and we would drive them to California to save the shipping cost. It took 3 days none stop. The first time - we made it to "Studio 54"!
Also in the 70's, a wonderful friend, Diane "Queen of Diamonds" introduced Randy to Kenny Rogers. "Lucille" was released in1977, it was the first of a long string of hits. All of our lives were changed forever. Kenny lived by a quote "if you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime" and thats exactly what happened for many people Kenny touched. Randy took a break from his business to work for Kenny and his new wife Marianne for many years. They treated everyone like family. When Randy went back to his own business, he quickly established a celebrity cliental, many of which were life long friends.
Randy loved cars, our dogs, talking business on the phone and me. Not sure of the order. Randy had no problem working 7 days a week early in the morning until late at night - but I could not get him to help me clean out the garage. Randy enjoyed working and never intended to retire. Thank You to all the Vendors, Body Shops, Mechanics, show rooms, Dealers, Craftsmen, Assistance, friends and clients that helped Randy over the years. He appreciated all of you. and was lucky to have found you.
Randy is predeceased by his parents George and Silvia Kessler. He is survived by his partner of 49 years Tony Villanueva, Adrian our dog, many relatives, cousins and second cousins Rikki, Albert, Alan, Bill, Sarah (Thank You for your help), Keri, Janna, Ryan,Dina. He will be missed by long time friends and many clients. I apologize to anyone I didn't mention. I am very touched by the number of people who have reached out to say that they will miss Randy, it means a lot.
Its not particularly clear but this photo says everything. The definition of Joy. Bentley is on the left, Bart (rescue) is on the right. They (and many other pets) are keeping Randy company in Heaven.
In Honor of Randy's wishes, his ashes will be interned at my family's grave site in Stockton California. There is not a Memorial planned at this time. Randy was a supporter of animal rescue. In Randy's memory please consider a "Gift of Life" donation to langefoundation.org.