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Randy Ritchie Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Randy Ritchie
112 Entries
Randy and I at my sons Birthday party 2001 we all love and miss you so much Randy.Randy and I lived together 12 years; he was my best friend,a great m
Moira Ash
April 14, 2018
Joell Cardenas
August 12, 2017
You would have stood by me, defended me, even apologized for my horrible behavior. Still, I left you for all those years, while believing I would come back as a better person. Now, upon my return, I find you - gone. No wound could ever be inflicted upon me that would hurt this bad. No deeper sorrow could ever be uttered that will fall upon my ears only. So, rest in peace, my dear friend and my beloved brother, you, the artist of artists.
Red Hewitt
June 14, 2017
I always had the best time taking a date to Original Joe's so I could watch Randy make a pass at them. He would always fill my water glass after every sip I took, so I would use the restroom and provide him the opportunity
to swoop in. I think that may be the same reason he always gave me free garlic bread.
He was a pilot, a woodworker, a waiter, and a friend.
Well done Randy. Wish it would have lasted longer though.
Thanks again for the garlic bread.
Jennifer Del Castillo
February 7, 2017
I'm so sorry to hear this almost 5 years ago .....you will be missed Randy, you touched so many lives. We shared part of our lives together, never a dull moment. My heart is heavy, RIP....
Fr. Allen Martinez
August 12, 2013
It's been a year already, missing you, Randy, so very much. You're in Heaven singing Happy Birthday to everyone. Now, enjoy your eternal life and rest with the Angels. Fr. Allen.
S. Marie
October 21, 2012
In 1991, Randy added creativity and spice to our Mardi Gras party in Palo Alto, CA. His Royal Rap in the King's Court entertained us, energized us, ignited the party....and it even changed my name. Rest now, Randy. You are remembered.
Diana Valenzuela
July 2, 2012
My husband and I had our first date at OJ's almost 30 years ago; Randy did a birthday rap at the next table - What an amazing thing to see and hear! We became regulars and lucky for me, my husband had Randy do a rap for my 30th birthday a few years later. I just spoke to Randy in March and let him know that while neither of us was 20 years older that I had just celebrated by 50th and we shared a few memories. Last evening we went for dinner and I brought my rap for Randy to re-sign - we were in absolute shock to be told about Randy's passing. Randy, you were a beacon for liveliness and fun - Rest in Peace. Diana and Roy Valenzuela
Sachet Torres
June 13, 2012
My husband & I took my daughter to Original Joe's to celebrate her 16th Birthday lastnite & was hoping to be seated in Randy's section for his famous birthday rap but while waiting for our table my husband asked about Randy's picture sitting behind the host desk, we couldn't believe the sad news. Like always we just expected him to be there. I thought about him while dining & pictured him hustling around. He's already missed but in a better place I'm sure. Life is so fragile & precious. RIP Randy & once again Thank you!-The Torres Family
Bruno Versaci
June 11, 2012
Dear Randy, during the past 30 years I'd come by OJ's sometimes once every few months and sometimes once every few years - but you always remembered me. Just the other day I brought my wife by for her first "chant". When I asked for your section, the host said you passed away. I said, no you misunderstood, I said Randy. He said I know, he passed away. After the shock in knowing he was correct, I just thought you'd be popping out from around the table - like it was some joke. I just "expected you to be there - you always are". Unfortunatley, it was no joke. I will still hold on to my wife's chant. Maybe someday in Heaven, you can chant it for her: "It's your birthday 2.3.4..." You will be truely missed. Your friend, Bruno
Tim Warner
May 27, 2012
Randy, Randy, Randy.... so many firsts in my life were with you. I have the feeling we could pick up again at any point in time and still connect. I hope we will meet up in eternity. The music, the enhancement(s), the high school days, etc. all that stuff we never forget...
Eric Chevlen
May 23, 2012
I'm sad to learn of Randy's death. I remember him from a quite different context. His mother, decades ago, was a patient of mine. Randy was devoted to her well-being. I remember them both fondly. RIP.
--Eric Chevlen, MD
Youngstown, OH
May 23, 2012
I have known Randy for almost my entire life.What a sad loss of a great person.Randy was a special person.I miss him already.
I'll see you in the next world Randy.He was one of us.
Chuck Rovai
Steve Riley
May 15, 2012
We will miss you.
Steve and Austin Riley
David Gee
May 14, 2012
Randy Ritchie was, indeed, one-of-a-kind. A man possessed of a youthful spirit that never seemed to be hampered by the touch of his earthly years. To know Randy was to sense the great depth of soul he had; and to revel in his love of life, of friends and of his endless pursuit of a smile. I'll continue to warm myself on the many golden moments we shared. And I will forever thank the Good Lord that such a unique and fun-loving character such as R. Garth Ritchie should have somehow seen fit to touch my life so profoundly.
Nancy S
May 14, 2012
Randy was a great man. I first met him when I was a young girl eating dinner there at Original Joe's with my Dad. He always recognized us and made us feel like family. Especially for my birthday!
I was just there this weekend and kept thinking he was going to walk by our table with his big smile. He will surely be missed!
My sincerest condolences to the family.
May 14, 2012
Say it ain't so! People like Randy are so few and far between, saying goodbye is extra hard.
Randy first became a part of our family at OJs and all 4 generations found it so easy to love and appreciate his special Randy-ness. Not a visit went by when I didn't go home with a pack of Juicy Fruit for mom if she wasn't with us. My brother and brother-in-law were both lucky enough to have one on one woodworking sessions and we all loved seeing him "outside" at family and friends' weddings. His video productions were, of course, one of a kind.
A true renaissance character. We will miss you everywhere, Randy.
Love, the Giannini family
Buzz Dare
May 14, 2012
Randy, I'm at a loss for words to express the admiration that we have for you, and for the many times you caused our dining at OJ's to be the best of all dining experiences. I read that you didn't do such a good job on the video of Don Enos's wedding, but with practice you surely improved greatly, because the video you did of our daughter's wedding in 1988 was so professional...you and your partner videoing from both the front and back in the church, and then one driving, while the other was video taping from the church to the reception. We brag about that wedding video all the time...but most of all, we brag about you. Original Joe's is our favorite place to eat, but it will never be the same without you..."Mr.Entertainment" We will all miss you, but never, never forget you.
Mona/Jim Summers
May 14, 2012
Randy was such a nice man. One of the last times we saw him was when he sang "Happy Birthday" to the bartender, Bijon. Nice memories. He will always be in our hearts.
Bill Burket
May 12, 2012
Randy was the greatest waiter we ever had. He served me, my wife Rosalie and our family for at least 25 years at Joe's. I will never forget the last cheer I saw him do. It was for my 60th birthday last July. When he finished he gave both me and my wife a big hug. On the bag with the cheer he added "I love you man!" There will never be another like him. Rest in Peace Randy - "Two, Three, Four!"
KELSEY DOETSCH
May 12, 2012
RANDY... I WAS SHOCKED AND HEARTBROKEN TO HEAR THAT YOU HAD PASSED AWAY... I'VE KNOWN YOU FOR 22 YEARS AND YOU'VE KNOWN MY FAMILY FOR WAY BEYOND THAT... I WILL NEVER EVER FORGET YOUR AMAZING BIRTHDAY SONGS (THEY ARE STILL HANGING ON MY WALL TO THIS DAY)... YOU HAVE TOUCHED SO MANY LIVES AND YOU ARE GOING TO BE GREATLY MISSED... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY THOUGHTS RANDY... WE WILL MISS YOU... AND NEVER FOR "AND YES YES YES ITS YOUR BIRTHDAY 2, 3, 4!"
Leon Brow
May 12, 2012
You will be missed
Leon Brown
May 12, 2012
Wow. What to say. Randy was an amazing person in my life since I was a baby! I lived next door to him for years as I grew up and he treated me like his own son throwing my birthday parties and going beyond to make sure I had the best childhood! He was a one of a kind to everyone in the neighborhood with his bike riding wood work and beautiful flowers. I have so many pictures and memories postcards from his trips. He is also the one who first took me up in a plain where i would always fall asleep. Haha. He will be missed more then he knows.
Teresa
May 11, 2012
I met Randy at OJ' s over 20 years ago. Although I have moved out of California I would travel back to San Jose to get my birthday rap. We will all miss you.
Charlie Thomas
May 11, 2012
I have known Randy since he was 12 years old. I dated his sister and loved his parents. Randy is a product of both of them, and a spirit that can not be matched. He played drums in my band a couple of times, along with cultivating some beautiful plants. Most of all, we truly enjoyed one anothers friendship. He will be greatly missed by all of his friends, and by so many of his loyal customers at OJs. What a character. I can truly say that there will be no one taking his place on this earth. He was one of a kind with a big heart, and a "crazy sense of humor", oh what a sense of humor. God bless you Randy Ritchie.
Love
Mia Cater
May 11, 2012
I have known Randy since the 4th grade. We walked home from school together everyday in grammer school. Why, because he had a crush on Janell who walked with me everyday too. He was a great guy who would do anything for anyone who knew him well. We planned all the class of 68 Los Gatos High School reunions together. Will miss all the fun we could have had palnning the big one Randy (50th)!!!!!
Rest in Peace, Mia Bate Cater
tom bossard
May 11, 2012
i worked with randy at bonaza steak house in los gatos in1969, and he always remembered me when i came to joes and made me feel welcome.
he will be missed a very good guy
thanks randt
tom bossard
Stu Ganz
May 10, 2012
Long live The Cardboard Scheme and RIP Randy!
Malcolm High
May 10, 2012
Met Randy through his roommate Jim Thomas in the 70's when they both worked at the Outlook and those were some of the most fun times ever. He started his "rap birthday" schtick then and it carried over to Original Joes although I'm sure it was a gradual thing as OJ's had a little bit of stuffiness to it when he first started. But boy did he spice things up there. I read most of the prior posts and a few brought a tear my eye. What a heart he had for people. We shared a love of video and would always discuss the latest cameras and what music to add to the wedding tape. Truly, one of a kind and will be missed.
Malcolm
May 10, 2012
Great high school friend, unique with
humor that permeated his life.
Mike Tracy, Sacramento.
Vic Bennett
May 10, 2012
I first met Randy at "Outlook" restaurant where I was a doorman. We had so many fun times at that place (if only the walls could talk) & then he moved to OJs who got the best ambassador a restaurant could have in Randy Richie.
All kidding aside he had a huge heart & made sooooo many people feel good. A great meal & great conversation every time at OJ's guaranteed! RIP...
Jan & Bob
May 10, 2012
Original Joes is an institution in San Jose and Randy was an institution at Joes. Rest well my friend.
1-2-3-4
Mitch
May 10, 2012
Randy and I shared the same birthday, albeit off by 21 years. Once I left San Jose, I would make a special trip every December to see Randy. I would go to his house when he did wedding videos, we often talked about flying. We would have an occasional meal together at Joes. I'll miss you buddy.
carmen jacinto
May 10, 2012
We will miss your happy face upon on arriving at original joe's. You will certainly be missed.
Ernie and Carmen
Denise Christensen
May 10, 2012
Randy,
We always enjoyed the crazy jokes you told us on a weekly basis and how you can bring the entire house to cheers with your "as only Randy can do" Birthday Rap. You are an institution to Original Joe's and we will truly miss you, your wit and your contagious smile.
Jerry, Denise, Joel and Brian
"Garden Globe" painted Porcelain Needletop Randy Ritchie ca 1974
May 10, 2012
Randy at Grand Cayman Island, Christmas 1997
Tim Lundell
May 10, 2012
Bob Nelson
May 10, 2012
We will always remember Randy's unique way of singing Happy Birthday at OJ's. He was a great guy. We used to go to OJ's once a week and we always asked for Randy to wait on us.
Bob and Linda Nelson
Elaine Lugo
May 10, 2012
Dear Randy,
Your wild exuberance and sweet warmth will be missed by my family. Thank you for bringing it on home ...
Besos amigo!
From the Lugo girls,
Elaine, Diana,Anna,Monica and our matriarch Consuelo
Brandy Miceli
May 9, 2012
I've had the privilege of knowing Randy my whole life. I go to Original Joe's every year on my birthday and I've saved every rap that he ever made for me. Saddens me to know that I won't be receiving one this year. He made every birthday special. Each time we went to OJ's it was a new experience because of him. Some crazy stuff came out of that man's mouth, but nonetheless, it was hilarious. Can't believe I'm hearing about this just now, a whole week later. Cried when I heard the news. He touched my life in a way that he will never know. Love you so much Randy, Rest in Paradise <3
Rita Reynolds
May 9, 2012
Randy, I will dearly miss you. You were always smiling, cheerful, and special whenever my family and I came to OJ's. And a warm friend after I lost Gary. Thank you for always being "just you".
Peter Loustalet
May 9, 2012
May 09,2012
We first worked together at the Loft, Town & country village and then the Outlook, in the Pruneyard.. You were the most creative, fun and giving person I've ever known.. Too many stories to be told. You will be missed by everyone's lives that you touched.
GOOSE!! Peter Loustalet
Santa Cruz, California
Andy & Terri Average
May 9, 2012
Randy was one of the most lovely,funny and colorful men that we have have had the honor of knowing. We'll miss his raps,his stories about his band in the sixties and some things that I will refrain from mentioning. So long old friend. Say hi to Richie for us and give St.Peter a song on the way in. We'll meet again.
Vanessa D'Amelio Durrant
May 9, 2012
Randy...all of the Silva Ladies Loved YOU!!!
LoveYourDNA Beddome
May 9, 2012
Your light still shines on in the memory of all who crossed your path. OJ's will never be the same...
Poppa Hammy
May 9, 2012
We hadn't been to OJs for awhile and when we came Randy spotted me and said he had something for me and disappeared for a few minutes. He went out to his car and came back with a small painting which he said looked just like me. I was completely overwhelmed and greatly pleased.
His painting looks a little like me and I treasure it.
F I
May 9, 2012
Dammit Randy! I was on my yearly visit to SJ and was hoping to see you at OJ's. Just went last night and discovered what happened. Have fun up there my friend.
Owen Snyder
May 8, 2012
Randy first worked for us at the Outlook. His schtick I think started there on paper napkns for peoples birthdays. We asked for Randy everytime we went to OJ'S.
He'd introduce us to old members of the Association if they were there and other local politicos and known faces. Besides slipping us an orderof mushrooms now and then, he was a professional. Randy, thanks for all the memories and good times. We will miss you.
May 8, 2012
Randy........I hardly know what to say....I met you in 1982 when I was pregnant with the twins. I know many will remember them......Jared and Janelle. They will be 30 this year. You lived two doors down from us and watched me waddle down the street before they were born……….As they grew you taped their antics……..mostly Janelle beating up Jared. You came to their birthday parties………..gifted them with many young memories………….it was not an easy task of letting them know of your passing……….
We watched the “Weekend Warriors” football in the schoolyard……….sliding through the mud………across the street. The kids sanded wood projects you were working on………you made me a plant stand and a table top……………I altered a tux jacket in return………..only somehow I made the left sleeve longer than the right………and you said it was okay as it covered your shirt cuff…………we watched you ride you bike around the school to keep up your physique. We went to OJ's for birthday celebrations…………….you taught me about how to remember……..
I will never forget……………..tamara
May 8, 2012
His humor. Yelling to my mother in the back room "Mrs. K", Mary is trying to kiss me! We stayed friends and celebrated many BDs at OJs just to laugh and be in the now.... Your pottery work was always respected by my mother. She loved you and for being my first boyfriend, I couldn't have asked for a better friend. We stayed in touch and went with the flow. Smiles mean a lot and you had one to shine. Bye Randy....Later!
Miss Mary
Mary Kronzer
May 8, 2012
My first boyfriend.
First guy I kissed, first guy I hugged.
We lived in Blossom Hill Manor. I was 14 and he was 15.
I liked his smile and I will always remember the smell of his suede jacket.
phil doetsch
May 8, 2012
Randy, you would never have dreamed how much you inspired me. Sorry it has been a few years since we last spoke, but when people asked me where a great place to eat was, I would say Joe's and sit in Randy's section. You never passed by me at the counter or at a booth with out stopping by and having something off the wall to say. The trinkets you would make and carry around to show people your artistry in wood, let many see the man of many talents you were. I may not visit Joe's much these days, thanks to the 90 pounds I have lost, but my thoughts will always be of you and your special way with people. There truly were no strangers in your life, just friends you've yet to meet. Phil Doetsch
Michele Arbios
May 8, 2012
Randall Garth was a true friend to those he loved...his ceramic art, his musical talents, his sense of humor, his love of baseball...too many memories to post here. It was a privilege to share many moments that were special in my life with him. Aloha, Randy!
May 8, 2012
Randy;
I just forwarded the news of your passing to Tim Smith and Pam Dennerline. We were floored with the all this. Those years in the early 70's and working at the Outlook Restaurant brought you into our lives and have now connected us again in our grieving and reminded us that life is short. But you made it better for all of us. It was an honor to have you as a friend and to visit some of your galaxies, after a shift of course.
David Lambroughton
Mike Campfield
May 8, 2012
Randy was never my waiter at Joe's, I was always a counter guy. I was introduced to Joe's by a long ago girlfriend and I've been going there through a series of later girlfriends. Being a counter guy, Randy and I would often talk while he was putting in or picking up an order. On slow nights, he'd sit down with me and we'd talk about whatever he was up to. He would sometimes stop by asking my girlfriend and I if we knew a good rhyme for such-and-such a word as he feverishly composed his next birthday rap, to be delivered in mere minutes. He always treated us as his best friends, with a quick wit and a sly smile. Being at the counter, I always got a kick out of the horrified reaction of my unknowing (non-regular) counter-mates as Randy would break into his rap elsewhere in the resturant, his voice booming out. Who is that yelling???? After a few lines, they would settle down - especially when the cooks, other waiters, and most of the regulars would shime in with the "Two, Three, Four":
Yes! Yes! Yes! It's Your Birthday, Two, Three, Four.
Yes! Yes! Yes! It's Your Birthday, Two, Three, Four.
Yes! Yes! Yes! It's Your Birthday, Two, Three, Four. Yahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!
and the place would break out in applause. I used to be at Joe's every weekend, for years, but when they closed to renovate a few years ago, I stopped going and have not been back since. The last time I saw him was before that. Today, reading of Randy's passing in the paper, it made me doubly sad that I have missed seeing him and experiencing the whirlwind that was his joy of life. I will go back. Soon, I'm sure. And I will think of him and his spirit, still dancing around the place, and will hear the echo of "Two, Three, Four"! God's speed, my friend.
Connie Pranger
May 8, 2012
Aw Randy,
You touched so many lives, and made everybody feel special. What a lot of memories and wild times! And, yes, Randy, since I first saw you across the art room at R.J.Fisher middle school, you were always the coolest guy at school. Thank you for being my friend.
-Love,
Emily Caviglia
May 8, 2012
Randy Ritchie is someone I will never forget. I have grown up listening to hilarious stories shared by my dad about his time living with "Crazy Randy"... His spirit and energy were infectious and will not be forgotten. He shot a video of me as a young child called "See Emily Play" that I have treasured my entire life. It is the only video of me as such a young kid in a time that I only remember because of Randy's efforts to video it. For his birthday songs at OJ'S, his sleeveless shirt under his tuxedo jacket, his art, and the smile I see on my dad's face when he talks about Randy, he will definitely be missed. I love you, Crazy Randy. RIP
Christi Caviglia
May 8, 2012
I first met Randy after getting married to my beloved husband Louie in 1986. I had heard the "Crazy Randy" stories way before that tho. I remember feeling a little intimdated by this person who seemed larger than life.He was indeed crazy!! and charming,intelligent,passionate,and completely fascinating.The first time I met Randy I was going thru chemo for lymphoma.He gave a gift to me that my son took over years ago to keep his special treasures in.It was a beautiful hand carved koa wooden box.I remember thinking how kind it was of him to make this for me when he didnt even know me.When i opened it the lid was attached with a beautiful gold chain.He told me it had belonged to his mother and he wannted me to have it as she had battled cancer herself.I knew then why my husband loved him so much.I too grew to love him and am grateful that our children Emily,Keshia & Giovanni had the chance to meet & know him.We still have an amazing collection of his famous raku pots {some a little broken}sorry Randy..3 kids & 30 years ..his passing came as a shock and m sorry that Louie & I did not get to see him more recently.I am sure he is entertaining his audience wherever that may be.Rip Randy
pamela amato
May 8, 2012
what a sad thing - randy was the best always treating you like he just saw you yesterday made going to OJ's like old home week - my husband has been going there his entire life and remembers Randy from the day he started - was amazed that Randy could remember everyones name and love the songs - was such a wonderful person - we will miss you - no one can ever fill your shoes
Always smiling.
May 8, 2012
Lucinda Gold
May 8, 2012
I've been going to OJ's since I was born 25 years ago & Randy was there every time with a smile. A few months ago he sat down with my husband & me to talk about puzzle rings. He said his dad was a pilot for Pan-Am and brought him a puzzle ring from Iran when he was young. He was a colorful character, always full of stories & charm.
Maryann Quartuccio
May 8, 2012
Very shocking news to hear of Randy's passing, he was a remarkable waiter at Original Joe's and a dear friend of my brother Joe a chef at Original Joe's, will always remember Randy's Rap Birthday Song for my niece's 16th Birthday, she never forgot that, I unfortunately did not know him well except for the times we met at Original Joe's, but I could tell he was a great guy, nice and just alot of fun, he will truly be missed.
Michael Politi
May 8, 2012
What a GREAT GREAT guy. I have soooooo many stories. Randy was "OJs" for 25+ years.
Carol Butler
May 8, 2012
How saddened I was to hear about Randy in Scott Herhold's column today. He was a breath of fresh air to walk into Joe's and get razzed by Randy. I loved always joking with him and was always guaranteed of hearty hugs and laughs! give them hell up there Randy!
Nikki Marasco
May 8, 2012
I'd only known Randy for the past two years, but it seemed so much longer than that from the eyes of my loved one who'd felt like Randy was part of his extended family. He's sang to us countless times, wrote his raps on Original Joe's white bags and we have a piece of his original woodworking that had been a gift. Randy's big heart and great sense of humor will truly be missed. There are others at OJ's who will always make us laugh and have just as big of hearts, but Randy was an original. It's that simple.
We love you, Randy.
May 8, 2012
We knew Randy from the old days at the Outlook @ Pruneyard...his first waiter job & then of course at Joe's. Magnicicent human being. Gone way too soon. RIP sweet friend. Bob & Dag
Don Enos
May 8, 2012
This is very sad news:( Randy was a great guy, very funny, a super waiter, he made you feel like he really knew you forever! I first met Randy at OJ's (my all time favorite restaurant) about the same time he started working there over 30 years ago! He ended up video taping my wedding in 1982 it was the worse video ever and he knew it! It wasn't his fault, it was the bad technology of the time! Every single time from then on until the last time I saw him just a few months ago, he would say hello to me, how the hell you doing, long time no see, and then he would bring up the bad video, it was so funny to hear him talk about it every time I saw him for over 30 years!! I would kid him about how he owed me a new video or a refund and then he would laugh, leave for a minute and come back with some rav's and some garlic bread, our usual appetizer! Randy will be deeply missed by many that crossed his path, he was a one of kind guy and I'm glad to have known him!!
Patty Walsh
May 8, 2012
Wow. There are no words. You are unforgettable, Randy....RIP
Lila Slanovec
May 8, 2012
Randy sang the Birthday Song to everyone in our family at least once. I loved the "surprise ending". Jacket off with a flourish. Been going to O.J.s since 1957. Randy made a lot of those meals more enjoyable. You're a good man.
May 8, 2012
We had many family dinners with Randy as our server. He was so much more than that. A wonderful, caring person. He sang many "a birthday dinner" with our family and also "Happy Anniversary" dinners for many years. He will be missed by our family. He brought smiles to our faces for over three generations. He is now residing in heaven with my husband Greg. I hope they are catching up on "old times"! Godspeed Randy! You will be missed.
Debbie Thul
"Star Wars" Randy Ritchie 1979
Muray
May 8, 2012
"Snow Blind" Randy Ritchie 1978
Muray
May 8, 2012
Joe N
May 8, 2012
What a guy, those glasses, that smile, the birthday raps...Randy was the real deal, a great guy.
Rest in peace Randy, you were one of a kind and will not be forgotton.
Ray Ellsworth
May 8, 2012
My last meeting with Randy was just a few weeks ago at The Burger Pit in San Jose. I am thankful I had that opportunity to see him before his passing. We've known each other since grade school days. He told me he had worked for OJ's for 32 years!! I am really pleased to have had the pleasure to know you Randy. Rest in Peace my friend.
he did move like jaegar
Lou Caviglia
May 8, 2012
living with randy was one of the greatest times of my life. definetly the most fun. when randy asked me if he could move in with me, little did i realize it would be the ride of a lifetime. from cy wiffle, to diego segui, to r garth, to x water, to saratoga springs outlook employee party, to hawaii for three weeks together, to accupuncture on frogs, to the rfl, to the l m r blues band, to loving his mother and taking care of his father, to crystal glazes, to full moon raku, to gifting my wife in her struggle with cancer, to writing songs, to a million more things. i loved that man
Bill Wiese
May 8, 2012
I will miss Randy. One helluva good guy, and underneath the waiters' role there was the mind of a polymath. I enjoyed talking to him on many subjects.
I'd just seen him not too long ago at OJs and he was hale & hearty and did not look anywhere near 62.
My condolences to his family & friends.
We lost a good'un.
Doug Ross
May 8, 2012
Randy will really be missed by all who visited OJ's on a regular basis.
Tony
May 8, 2012
Rest in peace Randy, OJ's will not be the same without you.
Randy doing his rap thing at OJs. This was a great highlight for several of our family members, as well as friends.
fan
May 8, 2012
Velma Ingvardsen
May 8, 2012
In 1987 Randy became mine & my 3 little girls Guardian Angel!! Because of him I was able to stand on my own & raise my little girls. He made sure I was taken care of with a Benefit Party that will never be forgoten! He was uncle Randy he video taped all the special events. Haloween dress-up, school performances & never missed a birthday at Bullwickles. On each one of their 13th birthday Randy rented a limo picked them up from school they could bring 1 friend. Took them to Valley Fair with $100 dollars in hand to buy what ever they wanted & then took them to dinner & brought them home still in the limo. He made each one of them feel like a princess!!! We will trully miss you my Dearest friend!! RIP
Randy, Painting "Baboons" ca 1976, Murray Wagnon
Murray Wagnon
May 8, 2012
Randy and I grew up a few blocks apart, but it wasn't until 1974, when we were working at The Outlook, in Campbell, that we became friends. Randy and I were both artists, so it made sense that we would "hit it off". To me, Randy was Diego. It was only one of his 'nicknames', but it was the only name I have called him for more than forty years. It was a name he had earned as a result of his prowess at pitching in pick-up Wiffle Ball tournaments, a 'rising slider', I think, was his claim to fame. . .or was it a 'mean rising slider'. . .yes, that was it. . .and it suited him perfectly. Randy and I were 'housemates; twice, for a combined total of ten years. He had a very intelligent, extremely creative mind. If you knew Randy, you knew him completely, he held nothing back. We will miss having him here with us, but We will never forget that he walked among us. . . adios amigo.
David Snyder
May 8, 2012
I first knew Randy at the Outlook in the Pruneyard. I was his manager for years and when he did the two, three, four it was on my fat stomach!! When we were in town we would make a point to go see him and talk about what new thing he was into. Randy I will always treasure WATER MELON MEN and the joy of knjowing you. sh-boom sh-boom you will be missed and remembered.
Tim Lundell
May 8, 2012
Randy was practically a member of our family. OJ's Restaurant was a part of life for Penny and me since we first met 35 years ago, and Randy was a huge part of the experience almost all of those years. Our kids grew up celebrating just about every birthday with Randy's personalized rap, and, later, accepting his sage advice on girlfriend issues. One year we told Randy about our plans to spend Christmas in the Cayman Islands, and all the sudden Randy was going with us. One of the best vacation trips we ever had. But my best memory is when our son, Patrick, told Randy that he was attending college at Massey University in New Zealand, and without missing a beat, Randy reached in his wallet and pulled out...a Massey University student body card! (a memento of some girl and a wild trip to New Zealand many years before). He was a graduate of Louise Van Meter, Fisher Middle School and Los Gatos High...and in many ways, he just never grew up. My birthdays will never be the same without "Yes, yes, yes it's your birthday..two, three, four!" Randy, you brought so much joy to so many people, an enviable legacy for sure.
Grant Tressel
May 8, 2012
I knew Randy when her first started working at Joe's He lived with Jim Thomas..He paid $700 for the first VCR to record their own football games. On Thanksgiving day they would wear their tuxedoes and play tackle football in the mud. He was one of a kind RIP my old friend
Trish Neufeld
May 8, 2012
What a wonderful human being, so nice to hear more about his life outside of OJ's, he will be missed
Tracy Mesa (Baker)
May 8, 2012
He knew me before I knew him. Our parents were best friends/neighbors moving to Los Gatos from NY. He walked and talked like his Dad. He taught me to throw pottery and finish it with Raku. He rebelled in making sure that it be fun in whatever you were going to do. OJ's was his platform and his timing was right. He wasn't just a waiter, he was the show and a meal!
Barbara Spalding
May 8, 2012
Knowing Randy has been a joy. He will be
missed.
Linda Maxwell-Eubanks
May 8, 2012
Although I moved from our beloved Los Gatos, you are one of the few I remember growing up with. Your life here on earth was amazing and you only now can truly see how many lives you touched. Thank you for your contribution to this world. Rest now and wait for the rest of us to join you again someday. You will be missed, more than you know.
Kathy Moore
May 8, 2012
Randy was always funny and charming. I'll never forget him. So sorry to hear of his passing. An ol high school buddy. Rest well my old friend. I'll miss seeing you at OJ's
Lorna Handa
May 8, 2012
I am so saddened to learn of Randy's passing. I will miss his big hugs, birthday cheers and his kindness. I still have the burlwood box he made for me. I shall treasure it forever.
Karen Scott
May 8, 2012
Randy's family and my family were friends from the 1950s. He is a part of my childhood. What a loss. He will be sorely missed, not only at OJs, but by all those who knew him.
Steve Lafond
May 8, 2012
To the best server ever, a real big heart and true gentleman. You made my wife's birthday and every visit to OJ's special. A true San Jose treasure, you will be missed...OJ's just won't be the same. Rest in peace, Randy.
Tom Magee
May 8, 2012
This is very sad news. I have known Randy since I started going to OJ's in 1981. He did a couple birthday raps for me, but the best was for my daughter's 9th birthday last year.
My family sat at his table a few months back. I had no idea anything was wrong.
Mike Bobadilla
May 8, 2012
Randy was a long time high school friend. We met during some evening teenage hijinks at Oak Meadow Park. He walked up to me and said, "I know you, you're Mike Bobadilla." I replied. And I know you, you're Randy Ritchie." We were friends threafter. Gonna miss reminiscing with him at OJ's. Keep spreading the love Randy. I miss you.
Mike Bobadilla
May 8, 2012
One of my Los Gatos high school friend. We met at Oak Meadow Park during some evening teenage hijinks. He said, " I know you, you're Mike Bobadilla." I said, "I know you, you're Randy Ritchie.". We were friends thereafter. A piece of my life and history is gone. I miss him. Love ya dude. We'll jam in heaven.
May 8, 2012
You made all of my birthdays special. When you started to take off your jacket to expose your shirt I thought "what's he doing"?!! But it was the best way to end a song that a woman could ever dream of. You will be missed Randy.
May 8, 2012
A great High School friend and a great server. You will be missed the best to your family
Bob
Amanda
May 8, 2012
You have sang me I don't even know how many Happy Birthday's and I have every single one you wrote. You always remembered my family no matter how much time passed. You were a blessing to all of our hearts. Please watch over us.
Lori Gilliar
May 8, 2012
What a sad sad piece of news. From your gravelly voice to the surprise birthday rap you did for us last year to he way you could disarm the most guarded guest, you are a memorable man who will be truly missed.
Reyna Davis
May 7, 2012
I remember Randy being an amazing waiter at Original Joes. His birthday songs and dances were always fun to watch. I remember he came to our table one night and told my Dad that Evil Knieval was over in the bar and wanted to take my sister and I to meet him. Of course my Dad didn't believe him but said "Ok Randy...sure!!". We came back with Randy with signed cards from Evil Knieval. :-) O'Joes just wont be the same. RIP.
Nick & Jen Hansen
May 7, 2012
Me and my Fiance will forever remember what a great man Randy was. He was genuine, and always remembered us by name. Always asking how we where doing before anything. It will not be the same going to OJ's and not being able to see Randy's face. We will deeply miss you Randy!
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