Randall David Heater

Randy David Heater, born Jack Randall Bruner, passed away unexpectedly on July 13, 2016. Randy was born on September 11, 1949 in Tribune, Kansas to Opal Lienemann and Jackson Bruner. At a young age, he was adopted by Elmer David Heater and took on the name, Randall David Heater. Randy grew up in Ft. Collins, Colorado, and attended Fort Collins High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969. He was wounded in the war and received the Purple Heart. Randy was very proud to have served his country. In 1976 he made his way to Yreka, California to be near his biological father. Randy always loved music, especially country music. One night, while performing a gig, he met and fell in love with the love of his life, Debra Lynn Hammer. On March 4, 1979 they were married in front of family and friends, bound to be together forever. Randy made an impression on everyone he met. He would give the shirt off of his back to anyone who needed it. He never met an enemy. Randy’s favorite job was working at Dole Transportation as a bus driver. Randy was a big kid himself, and all of the kids just loved him. They named him “Big Mama” and were always excited when Randy was driving. Randy retired in 2009 and spent time playing music with his band, “Tulsa,” and being “Papa” to his grandchildren. In 2014, Debbie retired and together they traveled to Arizona and Colorado numerous times. One of his loves, besides his family, was playing softball for many years. Randy is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Opal Heater, and his biological father, Jackson Bruner; his sisters, Ricki Gardner and Susan Preston. Randy is survived by his wife of 37 years, Debbie; children, Stephen Heater, Daniel Heater, Sarah (Marc) Bergman, Rachel (Jeff) Crow, and Mathew (Torie) Heater; his brother, Russell (Jacque) Heater; and three grandchildren, Hailey, Ronan, and Jeffrey. In honor of Randy’s memory, donations may be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project at 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 23 at 12 noon at the Montague Community Center. Food will be served potluck style; please bring your favorite memory or memories of Randy to share.

Randall David Heater

September 11, 1949 - July 13, 2016