"My heart breaks.. Lucky to have known you, Randy... That's reason for #A5 it's #A5 Rose .A. Boija and her husband Joseph-Leon-Gumero are in the big trouble from how did I noticed two pictures of Randy for an examples.... I knew its' #A5 are wrong about it's my right.. "
In loving memory of
Randal "Randy" J. Bobst
September 24, 1954 - October 3, 2016
Randal James Bobst
(1954-2016)
Our beloved Randy passed away unexpectedly on October 3, 2016 in the company of his wife, Ann, at the Mercy Medical Center in Mason City, Iowa. He was born September 24, 1954 in Ames, Iowa to parents James and Ardith (Faber) Bobst.
He graduated from Hampton High School in 1972 and went on to pursue studies at Iowa State University and the University of Northern Iowa. Randy's deep sense of caring for others led him to pursue a degree in counseling. He obtained his masters degree from the University of Iowa and moved to the Twin Cities where he worked as an Employee Assistance Manager. Most recently, Randy worked as a substance abuse and family counselor.
Randy's caring personality extended far beyond the workplace. His generous nature made him a friend of everyone he met. He could find the positive side to every situation and taught those around him to do the same. He was a source of light, joy, laughter and wisdom to all those he met.
Randy's happiest moments were out on the lake fishing, spending time with family, spoiling his dogs with McDonald's ice cream cones, and every fall convincing people that this was the year the Vikings were going to the Super Bowl.
In addition to his gift of connecting with those around him, Randy also loved the birds that flocked to his feeders. His feeding stations were always full and he would call attention to the unusual birds that came to visit. Thanks to his dad, Randy developed a deep appreciation for the natural world and every spring and fall, he paid close attention to the farm planting and harvest seasons.
Above all, Randy had the gift of good nature and quiet enjoyment. His friends and family appreciated his non-judgmental acceptance, his quick wit, and his kind and generous spirit. He will be deeply missed but his spirit will live on forever in our hearts.
He is survived by his wife Ann, daughters Brooke (Liz) Jamison and Abby Lukensmeyer, mother Ardith Hill, stepmother Kathy Bobst, siblings Jane (Steve) Haviland, Deb (Tim) Primus, John (Erica) Bobst, and Angie (Kreg) Menning, and many other beloved family members.
He is preceded in death by his father James (Jim) Bobst and his cousin Mike Hanson.
We will be collecting unique pieces of fishing tackle in honor of Randy at the visitation on Sunday. If you would like to contribute, please bring your item with you and we will place it in a bowl on the table.
Tributes
"Ardith, My deepest sympathies on the loss of your son. May your memories and the love of your family surround you and give you strength and peace in the days ahead. With blessings, love and prayers, ~ Phyllis Ann Cassman"
"My heart breaks...to good to be gone so soon. Randy was the best of us, no doubt, but lest we forget the sprite within... recall the boat of a convertible (Buick?) he drove with a sprig of mistletoe hanging above the center of the front seat? As if he ever needed the prop. His smile and the twinkle in his eye revealed the soul of a rare gentleman and friend. Lucky to have known you, Randy."
"He was the finest man i've ever known."
"I have many memories of being in Randy's company and will always remember his winning smile!! Most of all I'm so glad that God put this great guy in my life and that Annie had the years she had with the love of her life!! "
"I was honored to have the privilege of working with Randy for the last four years. He helped many individuals in his calming ways, and was always there to listen; a gentle soul who will always bring a smile to a memory."
"It's with heartfelt sadness that I read about Randy's passing. He was a great friend back in our time at Iowa State. RJ, as we called him, Chris Klug and I were roommates most of our college careers. There are many fun stories to be told. In the end they all would illustrate the warm, wise and yes, unique person he was. My life is richer for having been his friend. I send my sincere condolences to Ann, his children, sisters Jane and Deb, and all his family and friends. He surely will be missed."
"I WAS SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE GREAT LOSS OF RANDY...HADN'T SEEN HIM SINCE THE LAST CLASS REUNION AND WE HAD A VERY GOOD CATCH UP CHAT AT THAT TIME...R.I.P RANDY......"
"So many happy memories among the sadness of loss. Jane, Randy and Deb were my closest Bobst cousins, and we made lots fun, mischief and laughter together. I wish for you all the peace of the Lord in sweet memories and family love. Ann, Ardie, Kathy, Angie and John, Jane and Deb and families take care of each other and remember."
"It's been a while but I have great memories of Randy from time spent together as friends and roommates at Iowa State. RJ (as we called him) usually drove us (Glen Pawlowski too) around Ames in his infamous "Jimmy" with the top removed. We had some great times hanging with RJ, the hot air balloon festival in Indianola being one of the most memorable. RIP buddy... "
"Ardie and Family. My heart breaks for you. Please know my thoughts are with and prayers for small comforts. I know you have wonderful memories that I hope will help at this sad time. With much care and prayers. Judy"
"I will miss many things about my brother-in-law. Randy always had a warm smile when ever he met us, no matter how he was feeling. He was the "Rock of Gibraltar" always accepting and nonjudgmental, never complaining You will be missed Randy in so many ways by so many people. Go Vikings! Superbowl bound this season for Randy!"
"He was one wild and crazy guy!"