"Mary, I was saddened to see that Dylan had died. I remember you talking about him when I worked with you at UWHC. I'm thinking of you with love, and wishing you peace. Dawn Maki Wavra"
In loving memory of
Dylan Ryan Randel
November 29, 2018
Dylan Ryan Randel, of Madison, passed away on November 29th, 2018, at the age of 32. He was a lifelong learner who enjoyed the culinary arts, music, reading, and the outdoors. One of the things Dylan loved most was enjoying a morning cup of coffee on the back porch, watching the wildlife around him. Dylan read classic literature daily; the most recent being The Breakfast of Champions, by Kurt Vonnegut. He was always interested in seeing new perspectives on ordinary things. He played his guitar regularly, strumming anything from Bob Dylan to Pink Floyd, and was still perfecting his skills at the didgeridoo. Dylan practiced mindfulness daily, reminding us to take time to enjoy life's simple pleasures. He struggled with the effects of Autism Spectrum Disorder his whole life, as well as intense anxiety in social situations. This ultimately resulted in his need to self-medicate, which fueled a long battle with drug addiction.
Dylan comes from a large close-knit family, and was preceded in death by his father, Lynn Randel. He is survived by his mother, Mary Randel; his older brother, Griffith Randel; his older sisters, Erin (Mark) Klein, Seanna (Evan) Williams, and Megan Randel; and his younger sisters, Stephanie Randel and Madelynn Randel. The silly nicknames he gave and his quirky sense of humor will live on in our memories and continue to bring us laughter and joy.
Dylan always found it extremely difficult to take part in social gatherings, and avoided people and noise whenever he could. In honor of his spirit, we will not hold a funeral or gathering for him. We celebrate his life with all the fond memories we have of Dylan, and grieve his death privately as he would have wanted.
Dylan's family would like to thank Christopher Lee for all of the kindness he showed to Dylan and his unwavering support toward the family.
Dylan loved dogs, especially his dog Buddy, and all animals. Being in the presence of animals brought Dylan so much peace and comfort in a world that was often overstimulating and chaotic. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Dane County Humane Society at https://www.giveshelter.org/how-to-help/donate or the Porchlight housing and outreach program which offers "a helping hand, not a handout" at http://porchlightinc.org/ in Dylan's name. His family encourages you to go to the tributes tab above to leave memories or condolences, and the photos and videos tab to view our favorite times with Dylan.
Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road, Madison
608-238-3434
Tributes
"I've been the Randel's dog walker and family friend for over 13 years. I talked to Dylan quite often when coming to walk Buddy and he was always polite, kind and happy. Upon walking in the house I would sometimes hear him playing his guitar or smell something delicious he was cooking in the kitchen. On one particular day Dylan told me I had his "dream job" and that he'd love to have a pet care business some day. As we talked, his enthusiasm reminded me that I shouldn't take for granted all that went into my business and how much I DID accomplish. He made me smile on a day I was so overwhelmed with work and all of the things ahead of me. Sometimes we only see what we haven't accomplished yet. Dylan and his love and enthusiasm for helping animals, made me stop and appreciate it again. It was just what I needed that day and I will never forget how our talk really helped me. I will continue to remember his enthusiasm and his inspiring words. He was very kind and I know buddy loved him so much. I would bring Buddy back from our walks and he would run straight to Dylan. It was as if Buddy had been gone for weeks and he couldn't get to Dylan fast enough. In return, Dylan always greeted Buddy with the same amount of love and excitement. Dylan will certainly be missed and I will always have fond memories of his kindness. ??? - Mary Beth Chernik"
"My sympathy Mary to you and your family at this very sad time. May Dylan rest in peace. Amen. Marcia May Wagner, Mineral Point Family Dentistry. I think of Dr. Randel often with fond memories--patients speak of him often with love. "
"MARY, I can't stand this. Love you."
"I did not know Dylan, but working with kids with ASD is a passion of mine. It warms my heart he found peace in animals, especially dogs. Dogs are great comfort in a world full of loudness and uncertainty. I know in my heart what a beautiful soul Dylan was and may he run free from the noises that paralyze this world. My deepest sympathies are with you."
"I am so very sorry for your loss. I send you all, Dylan's loving family, constant loving and heartfelt thoughts. I am a witness to Dylan's generous heart and how loved he is. My heart goes out to you through this difficult time and continued days of remembrance. Nobel "
"Dylan was one of the smartest people i ever met; I was so excited to have reconnected with him online and to talk to him again. I feel like I only got a few vague hints toward the intricate scientific machinations of his mind, and I only gave him a few vague hints toward how much I treasured his friendship and valued him in my life. My deepest condolences go to his family; there is no one like him and I doubt there will be. Im glad i got to know you Dylan, even if only briefly. Give my regards to David Melton. "
"Mary, Family snd Christopher, than you for sharing your pictures and memories of Dylan. We feel like we know him a lot better now. This is the Dylan we will remember. Love and hugs to all of you. Dave and Joyce Williams "
"So sorry to hear of your loss memories trick-or-treating going to the beach going to the caves"
"https://youtu.be/x5rrSUP6er0 Video of Steph and Dylan My favorite!"
"?I will look at a photo of your playful smiling face And for a moment I will escape to a serene happy place; Remembering all the laughter and all you would do, Cherishing the honest, caring, loving spirit of you.? Brenda Storler. I love you Dylan! I always will."
"Meg, my condolences to you and your family. Losing brothers is very hard. I lost my last one in July. Nobody can be a greater gift or greater pain than a little brother. "
"Seanna and Mary, we are thinking of you and your family as you celebrate Dylan?s life and the memories you shared."
"?A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.? ~Maya Angelou"
"So sorry to hear of your loss Stephanie. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Take care. "