Randall Richard Bakker, 77, entered his eternal home with the Lord on October 13, 2026. Born on April 3, 1949 to Lee and Lois (Aukes) Bakker, Randy lived a life marked by faith, service, generosity, and a deep commitment to his family.

Randy was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Donna, and a loving father and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife, Donna; his sons, Paul (Amy) and David (Lindsay) Bakker; and his cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth and Henry. He is also survived by his brothers, Mark (Teresa) and Jon (Corinne) Bakker, and his stepbrother, John (Darla) Oostendorp. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepmother, Thelma Bakker, and his brother and sister-in-law, Dwight and Jan Bakker.

As a grandfather, Randy was a source of endless comfort and joy. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, teaching them by example what true resilience, kindness, and generosity look like. Though they will miss him dearly, his grandchildren carry forward the profound love and warmth he wrapped them in every single day.

A lifelong learner, Randy studied electronics at Iowa State University and Dordt University, and later pursued Computer Science at Elmhurst College. After university in Iowa, Randy proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army. Throughout his career, he worked as an Electronics Technician, Technical Sales Representative, and ultimately as a Senior Software Engineer with Morgan Stanley. Colleagues and friends admired his intelligence, problem-solving ability, and willingness to help others.

Outside of his professional life, Randy was an avid photographer, a skilled woodworker, and enjoyed reading, cooking and baking. He maintained a lifelong fascination with technology, eagerly following and embracing new innovations throughout his life. His knowledge was much broader than his education would suggest, and he loved to engage in conversation on a wide range of topics – from farming and history to musical instruments and physics.

As a faithful member of the Christian Reformed Church, Randy's life was grounded in his faith in Jesus Christ. His family and friends were blessed by his quiet strength, generous spirit, and servant's heart. He was a long-time member of Elmhurst CRC and served multiple terms as a deacon. He became a member of LaGrave Ave CRC after moving to Grand Rapids in retirement.

In March 2023, Randy suffered a fall in his home and lived the remainder of his life as a quadriplegic. With Donna's unwavering love and care, they navigated this devastating life-change with dignity and grace. Randy continued to engage with life, always with a smile, showing his kind and generous spirit to all he encountered.

Though his absence will be deeply felt, his family rejoices in the promise of the resurrection and the assurance that he is now in the presence of his Savior, free from all physical limitations. His earthly journey has ended, but the legacy of faith, love, generosity, and steadfast devotion he leaves behind will continue through the lives of all who were blessed to know him.

Memorials can be given to The Mary Free Bed Foundation.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

The funeral service will be held at LaGrave Church on Friday, October 23 at 11AM with a visitation at 10AM. The service will be livestreamed and the link is accessible down below or on LaGrave's YouTube.