Obituary of Gilbert Donald Randall

Gilbert (Gib) Donald Randall born on the 4^th of August 1951 has died in Quesnel on the 13^th of March at the age of 71 after a long but brave and dignified fight with cancer. Born in the Okanagan town of Enderby to Violet and Richard Randall, Gib spent much of his childhood living in different communities around BC;  the family finally settling into the small Cariboo town of Wells when he was in his teens. Gib, as the eldest of seven children grew up quickly, marrying his childhood sweetheart Beatrice Thatcher in 1969. These were happy and special times as Gib and Bea worked hard and took pride in making a home and raising a family of their own. Many former and current Wells residents will no doubt remember fond times with Gib whether enjoying stories, laughs (and a few beers) in the former Jack of Clubs and the current Wells Hotel or family times playing baseball, curling, hockey, snowmobiling, fishing, hunting and camping- Gib was a keen outdoorsman and athlete, bringing his abundant ‘larger than life’ personality and superb skills to whatever he put his hand to.

A long-time logging operator in the Cariboo his family remember the many years Gib spent leaving home at 4am to get to the bush- rarely complaining and demonstrating a truly inspiring work ethic his entire life. Many of his former work associates will recall working with Gib, the long days, and difficult conditions necessary to earn a living. Upon leaving Wells for a move to Quesnel many will remember the party that was thrown for the Randall family with good wishes to mark the occasion. Many memorable times in Quesnel ensued, the community being blessed with Gib’s sense of humour, fun and unique charismatic charm. After his retirement Gib could be found most mornings with his coffee friends at the A & W on 2- Mile flat. He sure missed these meetups in recent months, and we hope the guys will raise a coffee in his memory.

Gib is survived by his loving wife Twyla whom he married in March of 2002 and her children Rodney and Stephen. Gib and Twyla enjoyed many happy years together camping and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends in both the Bowron Lake and Okanagan areas. He loved the rivers, sunshine, boating and activities particularly in the Okanagan, his first home never quite leaving his heart.  

His is survived by his children from his first marriage; Richard Randall, Buffy Randall(Jim Macmillan) and Kerry Croy(Darren Croy) and his grandchildren Sebastian, Beatrice, Ryder, and Dreydon- they will miss him beyond words.

Gib’s brothers and sisters join them in missing their big brother- they are Charlie Randall, David Randall, Patty Randall, Polly Randall, Ron Randall and Sherry Wooley as well as their extended families.  

Gib was an all-round legend of a man in the eyes of his children and perhaps in many of those who knew him; naturally good at things but humble with it- interested in the awe inspiring beauty and excitement  of life he sparked that in those who met him and was effortlessly handsome and cool- but also very sweet, kind and philosophical under it all- we will miss him and wish him a wonderful and beautiful onward journey. “Knock three times”

As per Gib’s request a memorial of remembrance will be held by his family in Armstrong BC in late summer. Details outlining this and how to take part will be shared closer to the time.