Randall D. Melton

Randall D. Melton, a man whose love for life was as vast as the open roads he traveled, passed away at Ferrell Hospital in Eldorado, IL, on January 22, 2024. Born on December 13, 1943, in Robinson, IL, his journey through life was as spirited and adventurous as he was.

From a young age, Randall signaled his future, standing by the highway near his childhood home, beckoning truckers to honk their horns. It was clear by age ten that he was destined to be a truck driver, a dream he pursued with passion. Throughout his career, Randall drove for companies like TransAm and CRST, with his last stint at Best Way. His tenure on the road included teaming with his beloved wife, Louise, until a heart attack and subsequent accident forced him to retire from long-haul trucking. This same accident was the genesis of his life with God, as he firmly held that his Lord intervened to save him. In later years, he continued to drive, albeit locally, for local Amish friends.

Randall's personal life was rich with interests and hobbies that brought joy to himself and those around him. A man of rhythm and melody, Randall had a fondness for both old country music and tunes by Elvis Presley, boasting a chance encounter with the King himself in Las Vegas. His love of dance led him to the love of his life, Louise, whom he met at a singles dance years ago. This was a fitting start for a couple who enjoyed life's simple pleasures together. Together, they shared many adventures and were especially fond of road trips to Evansville and Metropolis to try their luck at the local casinos. Back home, his Friday nights were reserved for professional wrestling, a passion so strong that he'd record the contests to watch if he was away.

His childhood love for raising rabbits was reignited a decade ago, treating them as both pets and practical livestock. Fishing at Newton Lake and Lincoln Trail Lake near Marshall, IL, was a particularly favorite pastime, with catfish being his preferred catch. Rainy nights were perfect for fishing, and he cherished taking his great-grandkids along, teaching them the ropes.

It was evident that family served as the foundation of Randall's life. He spent countless hours on his porch with his cousin "Prentie," reminiscing and enjoying each other's company. Though Louise was his light and joy, the couple's many (light-hearted) arguments were a source of entertainment for all who knew them, revealing the warmth and humor at the heart of their relationship. Despite not being one to wear his heart on his sleeve, Randall's face would light up with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, whom he treasured immensely.

As we step back and consider the fullness of his 80 years with us, we recognize that Randall Melton's story is not just one of the miles he traveled but of the countless lives he touched along the way. He will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.

He is survived by his son, Emerson Melton; by his step-children, Sara & Jay Steinmann, Glenda & Jerry Hanson, and Emmit & Amy Connely; by his grandchildren, Danny & Jessica Bonnell, Heather & Gage Daugherty, Jennifer Bonnell, Brandon Steinmann, Malinda & Kenneth Daugherty, Cole Hanson, Haley Henson, and Kaleb Connely; and by 13 cherished great-grandchildren.

He married Fern Louise Kamplain on September 30, 1995, and she preceded him in death on February 26, 2021. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd C. & Luetta E. (Needs) Melton; his sister, Mary Busby Mitchell Davis; his son, Lloyd Melton; and his daughter, Julia Bentley.

A time of visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 26th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream .

Burial will be in the Jones Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the "American Heart Association", with envelopes available at the funeral home.