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Randy Taylor Obituary
Randle W.
Randy Taylor, age 60, has mercifully been delivered from suffering and is at peace, after a brave and difficult battle with cancer. As tenacious in death as he was in life, Randy refused to give up, and fought relentlessly to continue his journey for as long as possible.
Born in Bismarck, North Dakota to John and Darlene Taylor, Randy grew up in Jerseyville, Illinois. He worked as an engineer for Brooks Erection Company, before coming to Ohio to continue his education at the University of Toledo. Randy joined Owens Illinois Glass Container Division as a project engineer where he developed and patented manufacturing processes, until 1980, when he began his entrepreneurial career. Randy founded Taylor Photo, one of the first one hour photo processing labs in the country. His expertise, unconventional methods, and attention to customer service established Randy as one of the most renowned minilab owners in the industry.
Although certified as a single engine and rotorcraft pilot, he will be most remembered for his colorful presence in the sky of our local community as a hot air balloon pilot. Randy created life long memories for the passengers, crews, and spectators that experienced his passion for ballooning. His talents lead him to both national and international competitive championships. Randy represented Eastman Kodak in many events around the country and around the world.
Randy served as a past commissioner of Toledo City Parks, where he contributed his time and his resources. He promoted the efforts of the Toledo Zoo and the Metroparks, in ballooning, and in his photographic support. Of his many accomplishments, one of his proudest was the distinction of "Eagle Scout."
Randy cared for all the creatures of the woods, made a friend of every dog he ever met, and engaged everyone in conversation. He was a unique and generous soul that touched the lives of many.
Randy is preceded in death by his brother, Nelson Scott Taylor, and wife, Jo Ann (Reano). His father, John B. Taylor Jr., passed one day before him. Randy is survived by his mother, Darlene; his brother, Alan (Marli); his son, Alex (Erin); his beloved Susan (Spackey) and his best friend, Toby.
A public memorial will be held at the Oak Openings Lodge, 5230 Wilkins Rd., Whitehouse, Ohio, on March 16, 2014, from 12-3 p.m. All are welcome.
Inquiries about orders in possession of Taylor Photo, or other concerns should contact
inquire.taylorphoto@ gmail.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Randy Taylor
5 Entries
Janet Hudson
March 2, 2014
My sincerest condolences to Susan and Randy's family. He was an amazing person! I remember talking to him when Taylor Photo was just a dream...and look what he did with that dream. A great man, far ahead of his time. May God's blessings be with his soul, with his family, and especially with his precious Susan.
Matt
February 28, 2014
Had the privilege of a balloon ride with Randy last year, he made it an absolute blast and was a true professional. What an interesting man! He will be missed.
Patricia Ball
February 26, 2014
What a sad loss to the photographic community of Toledo. Randy was the pioneer that paved the way for many other one hour labs in the area. If you ever had a question about photography or the process behind your images Randy was the man with the answer! He will be dearly missed! My thoughts are with Susan and his family.
Bob Lubell
February 21, 2014
Randy was a friend, professional supplier and contributor to the success of our business. He was a keen businessman and industry leader.
The community lost a fine man. Photography lost a visionary and a pioneer. Aviation lost a great pilot.
We express our sympathy to his children and to Susan.
Bob and Stevie Lubell
Grand Lubell Photography
February 21, 2014
Thinking of the family at this difficult time. Randy was my client and we talked every month, and boy did he rally to fight this awful disease. Glad he isn't suffering anymore.
Ann at Olman's
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