Randy Lee Ryefield, age 73, passed away Wednesday, October 15, 2025. He was born March 22, 1952, in Muskegon to Maxwell and Phyllis (Brown) Ryefield. Randy graduated from Fruitport High School and went on to graduate with an associate's degree from Baker College. On May 21, 1971, he married Jane L. Burrington in Muskegon, and she preceded him in death on October 19, 2017.
Known for his dedication to service and his generous heart, Randy spent his life enriching the lives of others through sports, volunteerism, and leadership. For over 25 years, Randy was a part of the Beach League Recreation program, where he served in nearly every capacity: player, coach, president of the football league, and treasurer of the baseball league. His commitment to fostering teamwork and sportsmanship left a lasting impact on countless young athletes and families.
Randy also devoted 25 years to the Traveler's Protective Association (TPA), serving on both local and state boards of directors and holding numerous leadership positions, including Safety Chairman and President. At the national level, he advanced the organization's mission as an Area Safety Chairman, overseeing safety initiatives across six states.
Together with his wife, Jane, Randy began volunteering with the youth bowling program at their local bowling center when their daughter, Misti, was a young bowler. What began as a family activity grew into decades of dedicated leadership within the sport. Randy served for 28 years on both local and state Youth Bowling Boards, including as a Director from Michigan's West District. He also supported Jane in her work with the Women's Bowling Association and volunteered regularly with the Men's Bowling Association during local and state tournaments.
A tireless advocate for youth bowling, Randy strongly believed in cultivating the next generation of bowlers. His mentorship, encouragement, and advocacy helped ensure that the sport he loved would continue to thrive.
Beyond his service and leadership, Randy found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was an avid bowler, golfer, and fisherman, and he took pride in cheering for his favorite Detroit sports teams.
Above all, Randy will be remembered for his kindness, his integrity, and his enduring commitment to others. He was a man who led quietly, served faithfully, and left every community he touched stronger for his presence.
He is survived by his daughter, Misti Ryefield, his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda (Burrington) and David Langusch, his partner, Sue Rudicil, several nieces, nephews, and cousins, best friend Bryan Westerlund, and many additional dear friends and extended family who will forever cherish his memory.
He was also preceded in death by his wife, Jane (Burrington), his parents and two sisters: Norma Houseman and Barbara Whelan; and a brother, Max "Bud" Ryefield, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Arlene (Burrington) and Arnold Lorenz.
A Celebration of Randy's Life will be held from 1-4 PM on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at the Sherman Bowling Center – Banquet Room (1531 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441). He will be laid to rest in Pine Hill Cemetery, Fruitport, MI. MEMORIALS to The Shildroth Invitational Bowling Tournament and Scholarship Fund and The Bowling-Veterans Link (BVL) will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at
www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100


Published by Muskegon Chronicle from Oct. 22 to Oct. 20, 2025.