Obituary of Randy Lee Townsend

Randy Lee Townsend of Duluth, completed his journeys around the sun at 63 on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015 at Peace of Mind Duluth, Inc. Randy was born on July 10, 1952 in Sioux Falls, S.D., to Orvie and Myrna Townsend. His work life included a year as a DJ for KUMD Radio, managing The Record Shop in Sioux Falls, S,D,, and many years of floor installation for Johnson's Carpet and Tile, Commercial Flooring, and Abalan's. Randy enjoyed sailing, (including several Trans Superior Races), golfing, working in his woodshop, fishing and "power lounging" at his cabin on Pequaywan Lake, and time with friends and family. Randy had excellent taste in music; music was breath to him. Randy's sense of humor and love of practical jokes are legendary. In June of 2003 Randy suffered a life-altering brain hemorrhage. After two very difficult years of recovery and assisted living situations, Randy moved into Peace of Mind of Duluth, Inc. The care and friendship he experienced living at POM gave him a second life, different from before, yet very happy and healthy. When Randy was diagnosed with terminal cancer in June, 2015, he made and completed a bucket list, including a helicopter ride, a ride on a Harley, two sailing trips, and a Twins game. We said no to skydiving and bungee jumping. Mostly, Randy enjoyed simple things like playing cards and foosball, listening to music and snacking. He loved candy and other treats and always had a supply in his pockets. As he neared the end of his life, the staff at Peace of Mind did everything necessary to assure he could stay at home till the end, with guidance and support from St. Luke's Hospice. He played his last games of cards and foosball on Thursday and died on Sunday, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Randy was preceded in death by his sister Jill Townsend Swapinski of Duluth and step dad Jim Smith of Duluth. He is survived by father Orvie Townsend (Bette); mother Myrna Smith (Jim); siblings Deena Townsend (David Marshall), Richie Townsend (Tammy), Chelly Townsend (John Schmidt), Steve Townsend (Jenny); brother-in-law Dale Swapinski; nieces and nephews Angie (Derek), Taylor, Kaitlyn, Josh, Doug, Maddy, Maggie, Alek, Sam, Spencer, Reece (who was like a son to Randy); and his longtime friend Barbara Barrey. Lisa Anderson and the staff and residents at Peace of Mind were Randy's family for his last 10 years and our hearts go out to them for their loss. His birth family will be forever grateful for all they've done for him and us. We also thank St. Luke's Hospice for their compassionate presence and wisdom through Randy's last months. CELEBRATION OF LIFE: 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, in the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4100 Grand Avenue in West Duluth, with visitation at