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Obituary: Randy Ray Pitzner (1953-2025)

Randy Ray PitznerMarch 13, 1953 – July 24, 2025
Randy Ray Pitzner
March 13, 1953 – July 24, 2025

Submitted by Sandy Pitzner–
Randy Ray Pitzner, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, in Sacramento, California, surrounded by his loving family. He was 72.

Born on March 13, 1953, in Wisconsin, Randy carried with him fond memories of his childhood—walking home from school, picking rhubarb, and savoring it as he walked. These simple joys shaped the man he would become: grounded, sincere, and full of life.

As a child, Randy moved with his family to Folsom, California, where he spent his formative years. In 1971 at the age of 18 he enlisted in the Air Force. He proudly served 14 years as a reservist.

At the age of 19 he married the love of his life, Sandy, after a determined and heartfelt pursuit. Their bond was one of deep love and unwavering partnership. Together 53 years, they built a life in Sacramento, raising two sons, Rick and Michael, and creating a home filled with love, laughter, adventure, and integrity.

Randy had a passion for travel and took great joy in exploring the vast beauty of the United States. He especially loved camping trips with family and friends, where stories were shared around the fire and memories were made under the stars. He played softball in his younger years and later coached his sons’ Little League baseball teams, always showing up with enthusiasm and support.

A lifelong dog lover, Randy’s early experiences raising German Shorthairs with his father instilled a deep appreciation for animals that he passed down to his children. He was a man of principle—honest, loyal, and true to his word. Though not perfect, Randy lived by a strong moral compass and was always there for those in need.

Randy was a Christian and a member of the Mariposa Avenue Church of Christ. His faith and love for the church and the community within the church gave him comfort and peace.

Randy is preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Darrell; his brothers Rick and Harlan. He is survived by his devoted wife Sandy; his sons Rick and Michael; his grandchildren Kori, Samantha and TJ; son in law Brian; granddaughter in law Brooklyn; his great-grandchildren Chase, Elijah, Robert, Everleigh, and Raelyn; and his brothers Willie and Joey; And nieces and nephews.

He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his love of buffets, and his boundless appetite for life. Randy was a great friend, a loving patriarch, and a man whose legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

His service will be August 23, 2025 at 11:00 am at Mariposa Avenue Church of Christ, 7111 Mariposa Avenue, Citrus Heights, CA 95610

A celebration of life will follow immediately after at the Folsom Moose Lodge, 203 Scott Street, Folsom, CA 95830

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to your favorite charity.