Daniel Randall

1950 - 2024

Daniel Randall
Daniel Walter Randall, born on August 29, 1950, in Pontiac, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2024.
Dan spent his early years in Royal Oak and Rochester, enjoying frequent trips up north to Empire and Glen Lake, with visits to the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. In 1967 he moved with his family to Danville, Illinois where he spent his senior year of high school. In his late teens, Dan developed a love for nature, community, and the arts.
In 1968, Dan headed to Illinois State University, where he met the love of his life, Debbie. The two were inseparable and married on their graduation day from ISU on June 10, 1972. They moved to Mount Pleasant, Michigan, where Dan pursued graduate studies at Central Michigan University. After completing his master's degree, the couple relocated to Midland, where Dan began his teaching career at Midland High School, specializing in theater. After several years Dan began working at H.H. Dow High school where he taught English. Dan's passion for teaching was evident in his enthusiastic and inspiring approach to education.
In addition to his teaching career, Dan was a dedicated real estate agent, investing in three rental properties and ensuring many of his fellow teachers found their forever homes. His commitment to his work and community was unwavering. He served on the PTSO of Cook School, where his children went to elementary school along with many other community endeavors.
In 1991, Dan faced a significant challenge when he suffered a debilitating stroke. Demonstrating immense resilience and determination, he worked tirelessly to regain movement on one side of his body, learning to walk and write again. Remarkably, Dan also regained his driver's license, defying the odds.
Dan had a deep love for his grandchildren, antiques (especially insulators), animals (particularly Westies), the Price is Right, and a good sense of humor. His infectious laughter and joyous spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Randall; his three children, David (Kerri) Randall, Doug Randall, and Danielle (Jonathan) Nau; and his cherished grandchildren, Carson, Morgan, Brady, and Riley Randall; Zac and Gavin Randall; and Harper, Quinn, and Rowan Nau. He is also survived by his sister, Sue Randall.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Lee Randall; Godparents Bert and Helen Olson; and his paternal Godfather, Gerry Winter.
A funeral service will be held at 11am on August 10, 2024 at St. John's Episcopal Church of Midland with Rev. Alissa Anderson officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 5:00pm – 7:00pm on August 9, 2024 at Smith-Miner Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider St. John's Episcopal Church of Midland and/or Humane Society of Midland County in Dan's memory.
His spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Smith-Miner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Randall family; to share a special memory please visit www.smithminer.com.