Randy Joel Craney

Randy Joel Craney of Watsonville, California passed away peacefully at home on May 9, 2024.

Last year, after returning from a trip to visit family in Florida, he was diagnosed with colo-rectal cancer. Randy underwent two surgeries, and stoically endured multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. He was doing well and facing a third and final surgery but succumbed to complications from the cancer. His wife, Nancy, was instrumental in his excellent care throughout his illness.

The family wishes to thank Randy's team at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz for their caring professionalism and comforting compassion during his year long battle.

Randy was born in Watsonville, California on December 6, 1952. He was the son of Fay and Red (Ormond) Craney, who both predeceased him. He was the middle child of three children. He attended local schools and was very active in sports, playing basketball for the Watsonville Wildcatz and the Cabrillo Seahawks. Randy was always very social and interested in the lives of all his friends. He was an avid gardener and loved growing veggies on the family's five acre property. Prior to his retirement, he worked for Lakeside Organic Gardens and was an advocate of organic farming methods.

Randy married Nancy Cooper in 1975 and one child was born from this union. He was a proud father and called his son his greatest accomplishment.

One of Randy's biggest joys was playing the part of Santa Claus for Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer Support Services. Every year Randy would start in summer growing out his hair and beard. By the time December rolled around, he truly looked like Santa! Randy was instrumental in raising much needed funds for the children during Jacob's Heart holiday fundraiser.

One of Randy's super powers was his quick wit and ability as a joke teller. He could actually remember jokes someone had told him years ago and repeat it with hilarious accuracy. He was truly a connoisseur of joke telling!

Randy loved the fourth of July! As the sun would set, he would barricade off Dolores Avenue and invite all the neighbors to sit in chairs on the sidewalk. He would then light up the sky as the MC of fireworks! His crazy and outgoing personality will be sorely missed.

Randy leaves behind his wife Nancy, his son Noah, his sisters Bambi Pro and Kelly Fordham, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

We are hosting a barbeque in memory of Randy on August 24, 2024, from 12-4 pm at The Heritage Hall, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Avenue in Watsonville. If you are planning to join us, please email lets.celebrate.randy@gmail.com and let us know how many will be attending so we can plan accordingly.

Published in The Pajaronian · July 15, 2024