Obituary: Randall Irwin Kundsen

Randall Irwin Knudsen, loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, and teacher, of Mount Prospect, IL, and also of Sturgeon Bay, WI, died peacefully Saturday morning, September 17, 2016 at Anna’s Healthcare CBRF in Sturgeon Bay, with family at his side. Randy spent thirty-six years teaching high school English and coaching debate, but perhaps his greatest lesson was teaching us how to live.

He was born November 3, 1943 in Melrose Park, IL, the son of Irwin James Knudsen and Donna Edna (Baum) Knudsen. Following his graduation from Proviso East High School in 1961, Randy went on to study English at Elmhurst College in Illinois where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1965; in 1970 he earned his master’s degree from Indiana University. Randy began his distinguished teaching career at Elk Grove High School where he met his wife Polly Lynne Brothers, but he spent most of his career at Prospect High School.

Randy most enjoyed family road trips with his camper, exploring the US. and Canada with his family. They even discovered their Sturgeon Bay vacation home while camping in Door County. It was here in Door County that Randy spent many hours walking the dog along beach and on the trails at the Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay. He was able to converse with anyone, friends and strangers alike. Randy was a huge Chicago Cubs fan. (They even clinched the division two days before Randy’s passing.) An avid reader, Randy continued to read even after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s reading first novels, then short stories, and finally poetry until he wasn’t able to read any more.

Above all, Randy loved his family, especially his grandchildren. His memory will live on in the hearts of his wife, Polly; children, Kerry (Scott) Galson of Morton Grove, IL; Andrew (Jen Kamm) of Appleton, WI; Brian Knudsen of New York City, NY; Susan Knudsen of Chicago, IL; grandchildren Avery, Toby, Benton, Madeline, and Oliver; sister, Karen (Doug) Schwpler of Missouri; and many nieces and nephews.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held at a future date.

Even in his final days, Randy’s family was reminded of the tremendous human capacity for love and compassion by the staff members and residents at Anna’s Healthcare.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Randy’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association or The Crossroads at Big Creek.

Huehns Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Sturgeon Bay is assisting the family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.