Randel "Woody" Widstrom

Randel "Woody" Widstrom, age 74, passed away on Wednesday February 25th 2026.

Survived by his Mother LaVonne Widstrom, Brother Mike Widstrom (Katie), Sister Robyn Novatney (Don), Neice Danica Widstrom (son Brett), Neice Molly Widstrom, Nephew Joe Novatney (wife Laura, children Emma and Hannah), and Neice Angie Smith (Nate), and numerous friends.

Woody was born, raised, and lived his life in Southeast Minneapolis. He went to Marshall University High School and graduated in 1969 and then attended Augsburg University and received a degree in psychology with a minor in physical education, graduating in 1973. He worked at Manning Transfer as a transportation delivery driver for 40 years and continued his passion as long as he could. Woody had many friends and was well known at his favorite bar Mannings. Woody was a passionate University of Minnesota Gopher football fan holding season tickets for many years. He could be seen wearing his favorite attire in either MN Gophers maroon and gold or Hawaiian shirts. He had an extensive collection of hats of all kinds. He was a lover of all things Christmas and his house inside and out was year-round decorated in preparation for his favorite holiday. For many years he hosted Christmas parties at his home and would dress up for the party with his friends as Santa and his elves. You could always count on him to have some toys or trinkets in his pockets for kids and adults alike. His favorite places to visit were the family cabin in Backus, MN, Las Vegas, Disney World, the Minnesota State Fair, and his local bars.

An intimate ceremony for family and close friends will be held on Wednesday March 4th at 2:00pm at Sunset Cemetery- 2250 St. Anthony Blvd, St. Anthony, MN 55418. Woody's Celebration of Life will be held for all on Saturday March 14th from 2:00-5:00pm at Kraus-Hartig VFW- 8100 Pleasant View Dr. NE, Spring Lake Park, MN 55432. We encourage everyone attending his Celebration of Life to dress in all his favorites such as Christmas, Hawaiian, or U of MN Gophers maroon and gold. Woody will be greatly missed by all.