Randal Ray Sveum

Randal Ray Sveum, age 71, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 25th, 2024, at his apartment in Minnetonka. He was born on March 28, 1953, in Winona, Minnesota, to Ellie Kearns and Harvey Sveum. Randy's early education included St. Martins Lutheran School and Winona Senior High. He earned his GED and pursued higher education at Winona State University and the University of Minnesota. Randy began his career as a construction laborer before finding his passion in the River Transportation Industry. Starting as a deckhand on the "Hot to Trot" in Winona, he worked on various Line-boats navigating the Mississippi River. Randy's determination led him to an apprentice program to become a riverboat captain, progressing from mate/steersman roles to earning his pilot's license. He later piloted tugboats on the Mississippi River in St. Paul, and eventually managed operations at the Winona and Red Wing Commercial Harbors. His leadership and dedication to his team earned him respect and admiration throughout his 35-year career, retiring in 2017. In 1987, Randy married Peggy Browne of Winona, and together they raised three sons, Erik, Patrick, and Kristofer, in Rochester, MN. Randy instilled his love for the Mississippi River in his family, spending summers at their beloved "Pollywog Farm" backwaters campground. He taught his sons practical skills and the joy of boating, grilling, and creating cherished memories with family and friends. Randy was known for his kindness, humor, and generosity. Despite separating and selling their home in 2021, Randy and Peg remained friends after their divorce, each moving to different locations in Minnesota. Randy is survived by his former wife Peg Sveum; Sons, Erik (Marissa), granddaughter Raegan (Mound MN), Patrick (Madeline), granddaughter Vanessa (Eden Prairie MN), Kristofer (Brooke) (St Louis Park MN); brother Darryl Sveum; step-sister Janet Kearns (Jeff) Gilbertson; brother-in-law Jon Bitu; and many other relatives and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bobby, and sister LaVonne. Please join Randy's family for a celebration of his life at The Sobieski Park Lodge in Winona on July 13th, 2024, from 5-8 PM. Please bring your stories and fond memories to share in honor of Randy.

Tributes

Randal Ray Sveum

March 28, 1953 - June 25, 2024

Tributes

Randal Ray Sveum

March 28, 1953 - June 25, 2024

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