Randall E. Hammond
JCU Member December 1987-July 1994
It is with profound sadness that the family of Randy Hammond announce his sudden passing at the far too young age of 60.
Randy was the youngest child, born to Walter and Jeanne Hammond, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his mother Jeanne Hammond (at 101 years old) just last year. He will be dearly missed by his high school sweetheart, and wife of 41 years, Cindy, his daughter Beth Matthews (Tom Matthews), son Tom Hammond (Jessica Hammond), siblings Russell, Eileen, Ralph, and Roy, his grandchildren, Zayden, Stella, Scott, and Saul, and many nieces and nephews.
Randy led a life full of accomplishments that most can only wish to achieve in twice as much time. He was committed to his family, and the kind of man that held on to friends his entire life. He was loyal, faithful, and steadfast in his beliefs. Retiring from the U.S. Airforce as a Master Sergeant after 20 years of dedicated service, he was HALO qualified, with over 100 jumps (out of perfectly good airplanes) with the Joint Communications Operations Squadron. He was a well decorated airman having earned several awards with the most notable being the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, and the Joint Commendation Medal.
He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor of Science in Technical Operations and a minor in Aviation Safety while serving active duty in the Air Force with two children in grade school and his wife by his side. This set him up for a future career with GE Aviation as a Principal Engineer. While at GE, Randy ran the Edison Internship program mentoring many young adults. He was also a Fire Fighter for Byron Township, a Board member and Youth Trap Coach of the South Kent Sportsman’s Club, a certified SCUBA diver, private pilot, electronics instructor at Grand Rapids Community College, and his latest (and very proud) achievement, a licensed ham radio operator.
Randy was a jack-of-all trades, fixer of just about anything including grandkid toys, and life-long learner. He loved his family dearly; there was nothing he couldn’t do.
Services will be held at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, Monday, October 4th with visitation beginning at 10:00 am and funeral service at 11:00 am. Reception to follow. He will be laid to rest Tuesday, October 5th at 11:00 am at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Rd, Augusta, MI 49012.