Ranzell Stearns

Ranzell 'Randy' Eugene Stearns Sr., 80, a Westport resident and 12-year manager of the Holiday Motel, as well as the Orca Motel next door for several years, died on Friday, April 19, 2013, at Pacific Care Center in Hoquiam, Washington of bladder cancer.

Randy, as everyone called him, was born on March 2, 1933, to Jennie and Elmer Stearns of Avon, South Dakota. He grew up there along with his brother, Al, and his sister, Hazel.

He was a carpenter by trade for many years, but also worked as a realtor and did many odd jobs, including working in the meat industry. He served the U.S. Army four years. He had also worked on the Alaska Pipeline.

Randy was known and loved for his sense of humor and wisdom. He enjoyed family time, fishing, camping, picnics, gardening, cooking, board games and especially working crosswords puzzles. His favorite daily ritual was a trip to the Red Apple Market to get his newspapers.

He is survived by his two children, daughter, Teresa (Ron) Dale of Hawthorne, Nev. and son, Ranzell (Melinda) Stearns Jr. of Aberdeen, Wash.; 4 stepchildren; 4 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and other family and friends.

Randy will be truly missed by family and friends.

A memorial service is planned for 2 P.M. Friday, August 16, 2013, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Westport.

A card of condolence with a message or a memory may be sent to the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com

Arrangements are by Fern Hill Funeral Home, Aberdeen. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ranzell Stearns, please visit our flower store.