Timothy Randall

When looking back on the life of Timothy Randall, it is easy to see both his unwavering resilience and his unconditional love for his family. He was a shining example of joy and strength, and he faced every challenge that came his way with a spirit of fierce determination. Nothing brought Tim greater happiness than spending time with his loved ones, no matter how simple the moments. His insatiable zest for life could be felt by all those around him. Deeply loved, Tim will be forever missed.

The late 1960s were some tumultuous years for the United States and the rest of the world. The Vietnam War raged overseas, calling countless servicemen away from home, and though Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, his death did not put an end to his call for civil rights. It was during this time that David and Linda (Vander Velde) Randall of Grand Rapids, Michigan, were awaiting the arrival of their first child. On May 9, 1969, Timothy Alan made his entrance into the world.

Growing up, Tim had a far from typical childhood of his generation. He was born with Cornelia deLang Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affected the growth of his arms and resulted in mental impairment. Tim was one of only five known cases in the U.S. at the time. He needed complete care since his birth. Tim was small in stature, but he eventually learned to walk, despite his limits. He even developed his own way of communicating with others.

Tim was raised in the family home alongside his younger twin brothers, Michael and James. He was a typical brother in many ways, and when he was mad, he could throw a pretty strong elbow. Tim loved spending time with his Grandma and Grandpa Vander Velde. The Randall family enjoyed camping in the Upper Peninsula, and their place on Croton Pond was the backdrop of so many priceless memories. Tim loved watching the birds there, and he liked plunking away on the keys of their keyboard. Tim thrived with plenty of support from friends and church members.

Though Tim never attended a traditional school, he did attend several development centers over the years. Tim went to the Lincoln Development Center until the age of 26. He then loved going to Hope Network. Tim also enjoyed attending Indian Trails Camp on the weekends and for one week each summer, where he did many projects and learned valuable life skills. He later spent days at Mercy Respite.

Tim never liked being closed in, and he much preferred being outside. He loved birdwatching, feeding the ducks, and enjoying nature. Tim enjoyed visiting Ludington each summer, and he especially liked watching the Badger come into port. He loved going for car rides and watching the boats at Wabasis Lake, and his dad would push him in a homemade wheelchair through several 10K races.

Never one to sit still for long, Tim had plenty of favorite activities to keep him busy in his free time. He liked people-watching at parades, and if he found a particular sound he liked on a sound book, he would press it again and again. Tim felt special when doing puzzles with his grandmother. He loved going to cross-country races, and he was especially proud of the suit he wore at Mike and Bina’s wedding. Tim was involved in the local Special Olympics. He liked to be in the center of whatever was happening—he was not one to be content on the sidelines. Tim’s laughter was contagious. He was a beautiful soul, inside and out, and a true witness to the wonder of his Creator.

To know Timothy Randall was to cherish him and his infectious love for life. He surpassed each and every expectation, and he radiated joy to all those around him. A beloved son, brother, uncle and grandson, Tim was a valuable addition to the lives of his friends and family members. His genuine heart allowed him to impact the lives of countless others for the better. Though he will be dearly missed, Tim leaves behind a priceless legacy that his loved ones will proudly carry on in his name, and his family is thankful that he was welcomed in Heaven with open arms.

Timothy Alan Randall, age 55 of Grand Rapids, entered into Eternal Glory on January 12, 2025. He is survived by his parents, David and Linda Randall; brothers Michael (Bina) and James; nephew and nieces Naina, Sejal, Brayden, and Alaina; aunts and uncles Gordon & Nancy VanderVelde, Carol Barnes, Mark & Michele VanderVelde, Beverly Brownlow; as well as several cousins.

The service to remember and celebrate Tim’s life will be held on Saturday, January 18 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Van Strien Creston Chapel. Friends are invited to gather with his family on Friday from 6-8 PM and on Saturday beginning at 10 AM. For those who wish, memorial donations to Fourth Reformed Church are appreciated. To read more about Tim, to share a memory or to sign his guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com