Randall W. "Randy" Cook

Randall W. Cook, known to friends and family as Randy, was the kind of man who could fill a room with laughter as easily as he could a garage with car parts. Born on December 21, 1954, in the heart of Rensselaer, IN, Randy's journey came full circle as he passed away in the same town on July 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of joy, adventure, and the unmistakable scent of motor oil.
Randy's life was a testament to the power of love and family. He was the beloved husband of Cindy Cook, with whom he shared a love that was as enduring as the classic cars he adored. They tied the knot on May 26, 1973, and together they navigated the winding roads of life. Randy was a proud father to his daughters, Madonna (Josh) Vanderwall and Brandee (Kevin) Moore, and he wore the title of 'papa/grandpa' like a badge of honor with his five grandchildren: Jared (fiancé Shelby), Mark, Brittney, Darian, and Wyatt, who will miss his larger-than-life presence.
Though he was preceded in death by his daughter Candace and his parents, Randy's spirit of joy and resilience remains a guiding light for all who knew him. Randy's brothers, Richard (Viola) Cook and Roger (Sue) Cook survive him.
A proud graduate of Rensselaer Central High School, Class of '72, Randy never lost his school spirit or his knack for getting into good-natured trouble. His career as a driller for General Drilling was more than a job; it was an extension of his love for loud booms and the thrill of a challenge. Randy could drill holes for dynamite with the precision of a surgeon and the enthusiasm of a kid at a fireworks show.
Randy's interests were as loud and fast as his personality. A member of the JC Cruisers, he had a soft spot for old cars that could still turn heads and burn rubber. Whether he was racing his stock car at the Rensselaer Raceway, zipping around in go-carts, or showing off the pulling tractor he built from scratch, Randy was in his element. His mechanical skills were legendary; there wasn't a thing he couldn't fix with a wrench and some choice words.
Beyond the roar of engines, Randy found peace in the great outdoors. Farming, fishing, and hunting were more than hobbies-they were his connection to the earth and its rhythms. As a member of Pheasants Forever Hunting Club, he was as much a conservationist as he was a sportsman, ensuring that future generations could enjoy the same pastimes that brought him so much joy.
Describing Randy is easy: funny, adventurous, handy. He was the guy who could make you laugh until you cried, take you on an unexpected adventure, and then fix your leaky faucet before dinner. His legacy is one of joy, a life lived at full throttle, and a reminder to all who knew him that the best way to go through life is with a smile on your face and a tool in your hand.
So here's to Randy-may the roads be endless, the fish always biting, and the laughter never-ending. Keep the pedal to the metal, good sir, and know that you've left a mark as indelible as grease on a spark plug. Godspeed, Randy. You've crossed the finish line in style.
Visitation will be Friday, July 11, 2025 from 3-7 p.m. CDT at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Debbie Voss officiating. Burial will follow at Crockett Cemetery.
Steinke Funeral Home is honored to be handling the arrangements. Memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.