Randall "Randy" Harms

randall
Randall “Randy” Scott Harms, age 58, of Dilworth, MN, died Monday, October 10, 2016, at Sanford Health, Fargo, ND.  Randy was the son of Leland Roger and Katherine Marie (Lill) Harms.  He was born on February 20, 1958, in Fergus Falls, MN. Randy attended Battle Lake Elementary School and High School, graduating with the Class of 1976.  Randy attended college at University of Minnesota Morris, received his degree in Business Administration from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND, and recently completed his Master’s Degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling at North Dakota State University in Fargo. On May 7, 1988, Randy married the love of his life, Cindy Rae Elise Ternes, at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Cloquet, MN.  His wife and children were his greatest treasure, and they enjoyed family life at their home in Dilworth.  He was always happy to share a story about one of the kid’s new accomplishments. He served as a police officer in both Henning and Battle Lake, MN.  He served on the Minnesota State Patrol, where he achieved the rank of Sargent.  His specialty was as an Accident Reconstructionist and also served as a Field Training Officer.  He was a mentor to many in law enforcement both before and after his retirement. He also worked for the Minnesota Department of Transportation as a Transportation Program Specialist.  Most recently he was employed as the Superintendent of Holy Cross Cemeteries and also at Boulger Funeral Home, both of Fargo. Randy was a parishioner at St. Mary’s Cathedral and Holy Spirit Catholic Church, both in Fargo, ND.  He was a member of the St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus and the Dilworth Lions Club.  He was a leader of Fargo Cursillo with his wife Cindy. Randy loved adventure and the family would often get in the car with just a cooler and see where the road took them.  He enjoyed his motorcycle and going on rides with Cindy.  He loved to sit and read a good book or have coffee with his friends.  Cindy and Randy cared for many foster children over 10 years, and they made a huge impact on the lives of many children.  He was always willing to be a listening ear for anyone who needed. He was preceded in death by his father, Leland Harms; infant daughters, Kaitlyn Marie and Mary; son, Caleb Lee; sister-in-law, Roxanne Ternes; and brother-in-law, Robert Trover. He is survived by his wife, Cindy and four children, Juliana Catherine, Seth Joseph,  Aidan Robert, and Josephine Rose, all of Dilworth; his mother, Katherine Harms, Battle Lake; brothers, Jeff (Cindy) Harms and Daniel (Sheila) Harms, both of Battle Lake; sisters, Linda Stoffer, Denver, CO, and Sarah (Tim) Easter, Sioux Falls, SD; sister-in-law, Janice Trover, Brooklyn Park, MN; brother-in-laws, Donald Ternes, St. Paul, MN, and Gerald (Janine) Ternes, Saginaw, MN. Visitation is at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Fargo, from 5:00-7:00 pm on Thursday, October 13, 2016, with a Rosary starting at 6:40 pm. A prayer service will begin at 7:00 pm.  The funeral mass will be at 10:00 am Friday, October 14, 2016, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, preceded by visitation from 9:00 to 10:00 am. Burial will take place immediately following the funeral at Trinity Cemetery, Battle Lake, MN. The family wishes to invite family and friends to stop and visit at their home in Dilworth on Friday evening after 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established by the family at a later date.

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  1. It was a privilege to know Randy – what a beautiful example of a Godly, Christian man to all. Our deepest sympathies – our thoughts and prayers goes out to his family.

  2. I am so very sorry to learn of Randy’s passing. Whenever I hear Randy’s name, a vivid memory comes to mind. Randy and I were among the chaperones for Aidan’s 8th grade ValleyFair trip. We happened to be at the chaperone table for a period of time, giving us plenty of time to visit. Randy shared so much about all of his children, including the amazing stories of how each came to be part of the Harms family. He beamed with pride when talking about each and every member of the family. There was do doubt that he loved you all greatly. Please be assured of my prayers in the days ahead.

  3. Dear Cindy and family, We are SO VERY SORRY for your great loss! Your family has been in our prayers ever since we heard that Randy was taken to the hospital. Randy was a great co worker and friend to Kent and I, and your family has always had a special place in our hearts. Our hearts are breaking for you, and
    we know there is nothing we can say or do to take away your pain. Please know you remain in our prayers, and we are here for you in whatever way you need, in the days ahead. God Bless and hold your family, especially at this time. Sending our love and big hugs to you, and we will see you on Friday.

  4. Cindy, Juliana, Seth, Aidan, and Josephine, we are so very sorry for the loss of your husband and father. We are praying for Randy and his family.

    Randy was such a kind man, and a good man. When he and I visited this summer about his addiction counseling coursework, I was so thrilled that a man of Randy’s faith, integrity, compassion, and all around good guy-ness was going to share his gifts. He loved his family and was so proud of you all; what a great loss for you, St. Mary’s, and the entire community. Rest in peace, sir.

    Wanda, Keith, and Jane Fischer

  5. Cindy and family,

    Lisa and I were so sad to hear of Randy’s passing. Our family has been praying for him and you since he suffered the attack. We’re so sorry he was taken from you and us – it was entirely too soon. We have so many fond memories of Randy from our Battle Lake days.

    Please know how much Randy’s friendship meant and how much respect and admiration Lisa and I both have for him. We will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers as you process and recover from his loss. Stay strong.

  6. Randy was a mentor to many who wear the badge. I was lucky to have met him as a Police Explorer, and later as a coworker at Concordia.

    One thing that always stood out to me was his calm and cool demeanor, even in times of crisis.

    Thanks for your willingness to share your knowledge and experience and your service to the citizens of Minnesota.

    Rest In Peace SP204 and peace, strength, and grace to Cindy and the family.

    With sincere condolences,

    Derek and Jen Randall

  7. Cindy and all, Our hearts go out to you and I know that you have some great memories of your lives together. Cherish them and hold them close to your heart.
    Love to all of you

  8. Cindy and kids,

    I am so sorry to hear of Randy’s passing, he was such a great man, husband, father, neighbor, and friend. I will miss hearing his motor cycle as he drives by my parents home and seeing a quick wave and glimpse of a smile under his helmet. If there is anything my family can do to help, please let us know.

  9. Even if Randy wasn’t my cousin…I would’ve wanted him as a friend. What an amazing man he was.He reminded me of his dad Lee in so many ways. Love you Randy…Your family are so proud of you & loved you so. God Bless .God has yet another Saint on hand.

  10. I remember Randy as a kind and intelligent man.
    My deepest sympathies to all of Randy’s family. Such a sad loss, I am so sorry.
    Sincerely,
    Nancy Papa

  11. So sorry to hear of this, Randy was always there to greet with a smile and a friend to so many.

  12. Randy was a man of character who demonstrated consistently what it looked like to treat people kindly, fairly, and with respect. I appreciate the time I got to work and know him. Our prayers go out to Cindy and the rest of the family. He will be greatly missed.

    Ryan & Christina Kapperud

  13. I will be praying for Randy and the family. He was a loving man and an absolute joy to be around. He was the best boss I ever had.

  14. We have such fond memories of Randy….. He made us smile and laugh until there were tears and side aches. Randy was such a generous, loving person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

  15. To Randy’s family; I am so sorry for your loss, there are no words to ease the sorrow. I have worked with Randy when he was employed by both Battle Lake and Henning. After he went to the State Patrol we would meet on the road in the northern part of the county and share information and visit. I remember those days fondly and had the utmost respect for him. He was a good man and will be missed by many.

  16. Cindy and family,

    Our hearts and prayers and prayers go out to you and we are so very sorry for your loss! We will continue to keep you all in prayer. May God comfort you and give you peace in the days and months ahead.

    Sincerely,

    Doug & Shelly Sandstrom & Family

  17. It is with great sadness that we learned of Randy’s death. We will be praying for all of you in the days ahead and will walk this journey with you.

  18. How I loved the man! Cindy and Randy: THE REAL DEAL. Dear Cindy, you two were the only couple I knew who incorporated God’s mercy in most all you did for others. Who adopts these days, anyway??? No problem for you two. Patience , perseverance, check, check. AND, you survived all the red tape that uncompassionate lawmakers set (almost in stone), for the many families who desire to be as merciful. For crying out loud, why they don’t get it is beyond me. You are all on my heart. I love you. Your dad is still right there to protect you, guide you. Call on him always, and above all, KEEP THE FAITH OF YOUR FATHER, you can best do that by imitating your parents: as practicing Catholics – equally yoked. Get it? Got it? Good.

  19. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I pray that you are all surrounded by the love and peace of God and family and friends. I remember Randy as such a kind and generous man with a deep commitment to family and community. May he be experiencing the peace of Jesus.

    Prayers and blessings to all of you.
    Dana Haagenson

  20. Dan and I are so sorry to hear of Randy’s death. We are thinking of all of the Harms family now and in the days ahead. May family and friends surround you, may their love comfort you, and may your precious memories sustain you.

  21. CINDY and family so sorry for your loss prayers for your beautiful family …may Randy rest in peace.

  22. Dear Cindy and Family,
    We are so very sorry for this loss. May all of Randy’s good works follow him. We pray that our Lord keep all of you close and comfort you.

  23. Dear Cindy and family,
    I did not know Randy well but my first impression when I did meet him was that there was something special about him. My husband and I met him when we went to his office to choose our burial site. He was so welcoming that it left a memory I’ll always remember. I can only imagine how many others he welcomed in his warm, caring, spiritual way. It’s as if he was saying “welcome home” to us.
    It gives me comfort to know that on October 10th, our Dear Lord said the same to Randy – “welcome home”.

    I’m so sorry for the pain you and your family are experiencing now. I can only imagine all the wonderful memories you have of Randy – what a gift. God Bless You!

  24. Cindy and family – The photo alongside of Randy’s obituary says it all. I can’ recall a conversation that didn’t start with an enthusiastic handshake and a sincere recollection of each others livelihood’s. Having lost my father at a young age, I think about the times ahead. I want you to know the memory of a man isn’t the same as his presence, but don’t underestimate the longevity of Randy’s love for you and his family. My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time of remembrance.

  25. Compassion, family, character, that is Randy Harms. I have known Randy since the second grade. Thru elementary school, confirmation, high school, college, and his best man. During this time Randy “is” my best friend and confident. Randy you walked me thru many of life’s trials. Randall Scott Harms thank you and we will continue our conversations. One day I will say hello again.

  26. I also knew Randy as SP 204. I assisted him many times, under some terrible conditions. I drove a tow truck and the company I worked for did all the towing for the MSP in Clay County. Randy was one of the nicest people I ever met and had the honor to help. He will be missed by many.

  27. Our hearts go out to Cindy and family. Randy was one of the finest Police Officers I had the pleasure to work with. I was with Moorhead PD and there was many calls where Randy showed up to see if be could help.
    Out of uniform he was a wonderful person.

  28. Sarah, I didn’t know Randy but because of the admiration and love you had for him, I know he had to have been just a wonderful person. I know your heart has been broken in the most painful way, and I am so very sorry. I am deeply sharing the grief of your loss. Remember all the good things because that is what keeps them close to us.

    With love,
    Sue, RN at Pettigrew

  29. So sorry for your lost. I didn’t really know Randy well. I met him at the cemetery while visiting the grave of my great grandson. He was trying to help me work on a memorial statue in the children’s cemetery. Seemed like a very caring man See to have his plate always full but always willing to help someone. Again so sorry for your lost.

  30. I’m so sorry for your huge loss. I worked with Randy Harms when he served on the Moorhead Airport Committee. Randy was a marvelous caring man with such pride in his family and enthusiasm for life. A true man of integrity. Many will treasure the memories of Randy…best wishes to you. Rest in Peace, Randy Harms.

  31. I knew Randy through school. He was kind, caring, always with a smile, respected and someone that I looked up to. I’m sorry for your loss and I’m wishing you and your family peace and strength during this difficult time.

  32. Harms Family –
    I am so sorry about the loss of your husband and father.
    Please know that I am praying for all of you.
    “God only gives his biggest struggles to his strongest warriors!”
    Stay strong, and always rely on the Lord for your strength and help! He is waiting for all of you to surrender into his loving arms, and let him fight this fight for you!
    God bless you. Sending love and prayers!

  33. Prayers to the family Randy! He will continue to be a leader and daddy in heaven. A new angel in heaven. Blessings to you all.
    Pam

  34. I worked in the DL radio shop and had the privilege to know Randy. He always came in with a smile on face and was a pleasure to work with. I cannot think of a greater loss to family, friends, and community.

  35. Randy was a great man. I had the honor of working with him on many occasions. My prayers to the family.

  36. Cindy and family,
    Our prayers and thoughts are with you. So sorry for all that you must be going through and praying God’s goodness wrap you in strength for the days to come. Randy was such a kind, friendly man.
    Dave and Theresa Hanson

    Juliana and Josephine, I am very sorry to hear that your dad died. It must be very hard for you both. My Condolences. Dani J. Hanson

  37. Cindy and family,
    I am honored to have know Randy through the State Patrol when I was a dispatcher there. He visited often and shared stories of your family with me. He was truly an ambassador for God here on earth and will continue to do that as an angel in heaven. My deepest sympathies on your loss. My prayers are with you and your family in the days ahead.

  38. Our deepest sympathy Cindy and family on your loss. May God grant you peace and comfort. Randy was a good friend. We had some great duck hunts together. Still remembering how black and blue his shoulder would get bringing in a bountiful harvest of waterfowl. Hang on to your memories. He will be missed.

  39. I knew Randy through his son and Boy Scouts. Randy always had a smile on his face and I often saw him laughing with other parents. I remember him talking about his second career and how excited he was about his studies and this new career.
    Randy always had interesting stories about his experiences from being a law enforcement officer. He was a well of knowledge. Randy was an interesting and kind person and I am sorry for your loss.

  40. I loved Randy, we were kindred spirits. This world seems diminished without my friend Randy. Praying for you and your beautiful family. I am so very sorry for your loss.

  41. Cindy, Seth, Juliana, Aiden & Josephine,
    My heart aches for your loss. I just don’t have enough words to say what a wonderful man Randy was. I am grateful that you all came into my life and that God allowed me to get to know Randy for the time that I did. I was one of his ‘guinea pigs’ while he was getting his Masters in counseling…. he would come into the Holy Spirit office and we would chat and laugh…. our Wine & Dine table will never be the same…. the memories I am privileged to have because of Randy. He has made a tremendous impact on so many lives. What a good and holy and godly man. Please know that I will be praying for all of you during my Holy Hour on Saturday afternoon.
    With love & prayers, Cheryl Fausel

  42. Praying for peace, understanding, and strength…today and every day. Randy made a positive difference in his life..he will never be forgotten.

  43. Dear Cindy and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. You and Randy were such wonderful colleagues to work with and to have for friends. What together you have given to the world around you and to your family and friends, we honor and we know you will carry on. May the pain of the moment turn soon to warm memories of a life well lived.

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Clyde, Esther and Scott Allen

  44. Cindy and family,
    I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved husband . May God hold you and your children close in your time of sorrow .
    Your friend,
    Cindy (Rodlund) Davidson

  45. Cindy and family: so so sorry to hear about Randy. Just looking at his picture in the paper says a lot about him: a really nice guy to know. Prayers for you and the family.wdnson

  46. Cindy; on behave of my wife and me we give you our sincerest condolences on the loss of Randy and will pray for Randy as well as for you and your family. God bless

  47. Cindy, Seth, Juliana, Aidan and Josephine,

    We are so sorry to hear about Randy’s passing. All of your family are in our prayers. Randy was an amazing person to so many. Always had a huge smile on his face, and even in difficult times, looked for the positive in a situation and knew that his Faith would carry him through to better times. I have thanked Randy a number of time for his time as a Law Enforcement Officer, and I think Randy touched many people in his own special way both in and out of the uniform. For me it was a conversation I had with him shortly after Caleb passed away, and it is conversations like those that will keep his memory fresh in my mind, but I will miss not seeing him around town with a big smile on his face, the handshake, or a hello and catching up on how the kids are doing.

    I know the community will help you through this difficult time and that Randy will be smiling down on all those he cared about.

    Steve and Christine Sopko and Family

  48. SP204……Detroit. Randy you were troop of intregity and knowledge. Thanks for all the one on one time in that unmarked cruiser. You will never be forgotten.

  49. I am so sorry. Randy was a great friend. I enjoyed our continued talks after he left MNDOT and when we travelled for work he always kept things hopping. I will miss him.

  50. Dear Cindy; Shock is not a strong enough word to describe how I felt when I heard of Randy’s passing. I told Brian Norberg it was hard to believe we are even talking about it. So many memories over the years, it’s hard to pick one out. My heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time. As we get older the relationships we had over our careers mellow some, but the folks we worked with in law enforcement are always close inside. I feel so sorry for you and your family, I just hope you can remain strong. I will miss seeing you during this time, Diane and I are in Florida for a couple weeks, but rest assured you are on my mind. Peace be with you.
    Craig Baker

  51. So sorry to hear of the death of your husband Cindy and father to your dear children. I used to see you all at St Mary’s when I lived in Fargo and admired you so as a family…..especially after the awful house fire you had. He and you Cindy were an inspiration. I remember that Fr Peter Hughes loved you all so much and now he and Randy can have a good catch up! May he rest in peace and may you all know the tender love and comfort of Jesus and Mary.

  52. Cindy, Juliana, Seth, Aidan, and Josephine…We are so very sad with your family as you mourn the loss of the special man who was your husband and father. What an amazing man he was with his humor and wit and big tender heart! AND what a beautiful and giving family you have always been. We trust God will hold your family in His loving care and surround you with the many who love you all. The video celebrating Randy’s life was heartwarming and reflected the wonderful man he was. His loving heart and and strong positive spirit will live on always through each of you and so many others whose lives he touched!

    God’s unending love and comfort and peace to your family…

  53. Cindy and Family,
    It was very sad news to hear of Randy’s passing. You have my deepest sympathy and know that everyone who knows you and Randy sends you their love and support during this difficult time.

  54. Randy will be missed by our family. Cindy, Randy, and the kids have touched our lives by being loving respite care providers for years for our boys. Their family have made many memories that will not be forgotten.


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