Randy Emil Harpel, a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, fun loving brother and loyal friend, left us on August 22, 2025. He passed away in Rapid City, SD, at the age of 71.

Born on January 20, 1954, in Edinburg, TX, Randy grew up with a strong sense of community and family values, which he carried throughout his life. He loved living in the Black Hills of South Dakota, where he lived the majority of his life.

Randy met the love of his life, Cindy, the old-fashioned way, at a bar in Rapid City, SD. They were married for 48 years. Nothing can compare to the love and bond they shared. He loved Cindy more than anything, and the strength of their relationship was the foundation that allowed their beautiful family to grow to what it is today. Together, they raised three children: Nicole, Rachel, and Valerie. He took immense pride in his children, guiding them with wisdom, humor and unconditional love. He was always their biggest cheerleader, offering encouragement and support in every endeavor. He took pride in passing along his love for camping, hiking, fishing, biking, flying, hunting and fondness for the outdoors and animals onto his daughters.

Throughout his career as a journeyman ironworker, Randy was known for his dedication, integrity and innovative spirit. His career allowed him to travel and build steel structures all around the nation. His stories were plentiful, and his thirst for knowledge knew no bounds. You never played trivia or any game for that matter against Randy unless you wanted to lose. He was a true renaissance man that could do anything and forgot nothing.

Beyond his professional life, Randy had a passion for adventure and travel. He was a strong, determined and resilient individual who never let life's challenges define him. He thrived on beating the odds and never shied away from overcoming adversities. If you were lucky enough to know Randy, he was and will always be the strongest, most inspiring person you have ever met. His warm smile, generous spirit, and captivating storytelling will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He had a unique ability to make everyone feel special and valued, leaving an impression on their hearts.

At age 46, Randy's life would be forever altered after a work accident, which resulted in a spinal cord injury. He remained strong for his family, stayed positive and never let his injury change him. For the past 25 years, with Cindy championing his journey, he not only survived but flourished and continued to thrive as a quadriplegic. Randy, who was very active and fit before the accident, was able to adapt and maintain his strength, flexibility, and overall health largely due to the immense support of two exceptional individuals: Jesse Tetreault and April Johnson. The family is unable to adequately express their gratitude for the crucial role these two played in his long and healthy life.

Randy was an angel placed in our lives to teach us not to sweat the small stuff, and with a little grit, persistence, stubbornness, and humor, nothing can get you down. Now he will be shedding his shining light on us from above.

Randy is survived by his devoted wife, Cindy Harpel (Sanderson) of Spearfish, SD; his daughters, Nicole Romness of Bloomington, MN, Rachel Evans and husband Ryan of Golden, CO, and Valerie Carlson and husband Jonathan of Spearfish, SD; and his six grandchildren, Kayla Romness, Gavin Romness, Felicity Carlson, Magnus Carlson, Titan Carlson, and Knox Carlson.

A memorial service to celebrate Randy's life will be held at Countryside Church on August 29, 2025 from 2-4pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Randy's name to the Craig Hospital Foundation. Randy has personally experienced the support they provide to every person who comes through their doors.

To make a donation in his honor, please contact https://craighospital.org/foundation/donate .

Cremation arrangements were under the care of Isburg Crematory of Spearfish.