Randy P. Podeszwa

Randy P. Podeszwa, 60, died peacefully on Monday, April 1, 2013 in his home. Born January 25, 1953 in Rockford, son of Stanley P. and Edna Hanson Podeszwa. Graduated from West High School where he was active with the rifle team and was the Battalion Commander with the ROTC. He attended Loyola University and was a graduate of Rock Valley College. Married Coreen Scheidegger on February 29, 1980. He had been employed by UPS as an Air Handler for nearly 19 years and was a Union Steward with Teamsters Local #710 for 17 years. He had also formerly worked for Modern Metals and at Amerock Corp. for 16 years where he was active with the Rifle Team. Randy loved volleyball and coached it in the schools. He enjoyed music and in his youth he played the drums. He was a chess instructor who passionately taught a wide range of pupils including those within the Rockford schools (particularly RESA Middle School), retired seniors, students he tutored individually, and the Whiz Kids. He was a loving husband and dad who was involved in his family's activities and he loved to make people laugh. Randy was a giving man who often donated blood. His generous nature continued in death as he helped others by being a bone and tissue donor.

Survivors include his wife, Coreen; children, Jason, Ryan, April, and Kyle (Leslie) Podeszwa; siblings, Terry (Laurie), David (Luanne) Podeszwa, Sue Murr, and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, two sisters-in-law, one nephew, and two nieces.

A celebration of Randy's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 6, 2013 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. A time of visitation will be from noon until time of the service. Entombment in Sunset Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.