Randy's obituary
Randel James Gilpin died on July 28th, 2024 at the age of 63 while doing what he loved, fishing, at Hungry Horse Reservoir near Kalispell, Montana.
Randy was born on May 11th, 1961, in The Dalles as a fourth generation member of the Gilpin family in the state of Oregon. He grew up with his brother, Dale, and sister, Monica, playing kickball, hide-and-seek, and often hooky bobbing during the three-foot winter snow days in eastern Oregon. Randy played little league baseball, football in junior high, and ran track at The Dalles High School. He was known for being the life of the party and had more friends than anyone could count. Throughout his time in Oregon, Randy loved fishing on the Deschutes River for steelhead and hunting mule deer and elk, which grew to be some of his main life passions. This created a dream to move to Montana in 2003 with his own family, where he worked as a traveling agent for Yellow Pages, also known as The Berry Company. Among other jobs, his most recent was at Jesco Marine & Power Sports. In all of his professional and personal life, Randy created a network of friendships throughout the Flathead Valley.
Randy is remembered as a beloved coach, father, and friend. He mentored and taught many athletes, and continually encouraged others to find their passions and pursue them wholeheartedly. He was personally passionate about football, hunting, fishing, and loved sharing these activities with his family. He especially enjoyed spending time in the mountains in Montana, where he always felt at home. His legacy for loving the outdoors will continue on in his children, who all share his passion for the oudoors. Randy developed a love for cooking and hospitality, often posting his tasty meals saying, “It’s what’s for dinner in MONTANA!!!”
Randy is preceded in death by his father, Harry Gilpin. He is survived by his brother, Dale (Colleen) Gilpin, his sister, Monica (Mike) Hagler, along with his mother, Elaine Ritter, and his step-mother, Judy Gilpin. Randy is also survived by the mother of his children, Sharon Gilpin, his sons and daughter, Andrew (Tessa) Gilpin, Brandon (Maia) Gilpin, Moriah Gilpin, and Joshua Gilpin along with his two grandsons, Rhett and Scott Gilpin.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 pm on Tuesday, August 6th, at Hope Church. The address is 436 Birch Grove Rd. Kalispell, MT.
In lieu of flowers, anyone who wishes to support the family can send cards and donations to 30 Terry Rd, Unit A Kalispell, MT 59901.