John "Jack" Gordon Smedema

John Gordon Smedema, age 98 of Randolph, went to his heavenly home on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Randolph Health Services.

John was born on March 25, 1927, son of George and Mary (DenDekker) Smedema. He was united in marriage to Elizabeth “Betty” Jansma on November 23, 1951, at Second Christian Reformed Church. Faith played a crucial role in Jack's life as well. He was a devoted member of Second Christian Reformed Church, where he served as a deacon and elder. His strong faith was a guiding light for him and those around him.

Jack had a varied career, with significant employment at Randolph Ready Mix, later known as 4X. He also proudly served in the Army from 1945 to 1947, a testament to his commitment to his country. Jack was a dedicated farmer throughout his life. His love for the land was evident in every aspect of his work, from caring for the animals to chopping hay and driving the tractor. Farming was not just a job for Jack; it was his passion and the cornerstone of his identity.

A loving and caring man, Jack was known for his warm personality. He had a knack for making connections, and it seemed that he knew everyone, and everyone knew him. Jack enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, delighting in playing cards, especially cribbage and Euchre. He was well-known for his enthusiasm for a good game of "Dutch Bingo."

In addition to his love for games, Jack had a passion for sports and outdoor activities. He enjoyed bowling until health constraints made it difficult, and he continued to golf until the remarkable age of 91, achieving a score of 89 at the age of 89, an accomplishment he treasured.

Jack is survived by his four daughters; Patricia (Jeff) Christian, Cynthia (Larry) Ruiter, both of Randolph, Mary (David) Katsma, Melinda (Bradley) Kemink, both of Cambria, his son, Darren (Melissa) Smedema, Cambria, 15 grandchildren; Brooke and Rachel Christian, Lynn (Dave) Green, Lori (Scott) Cuppiciotti, Kurt and Patty Ruiter, Lauren (Kevin) Tillema, Janelle (Mike) Kartechner, Vanessa (Tyler) Fischer, Melissa (Nate) Bresser, Brett (Jessica) Kemink, Megan (Jordon) Wendlandt, Jack, Brayden, and Nolan Smedema, eighteen great-grandchildren; his sister, Babe Koorndyk, sisters-in-law, Nancy Jansma and Ellie Bazuin, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty; son in infancy; his sister, Bernie (Dan) Guess and his brother, Toby (Ann) Smedema; brothers-in-law, Lee Jansma, Ken Koorndyk and Rev. Archie Bazuin.

Visitation for Jack will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Second Christian Reformed Church 332 Tamarack Street, Randolph, WI.

Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Second Christian Reformed Church, with Rev. Keith Buist officiating. Burial will follow in Friesland Cemetery.

He leaves behind many fond memories in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy of love, laughter, and connection will continue to resonate within the community he helped shape and nurture.

The family expresses a special thank you to Randolph Health Services and Epic Care Solutions for the wonderful care they provided during Jack's later years.