Randal Grant Tuft

Randal Grant Tuft Coach T Randal Grant Tuft, 59, passed away on January, 18th, 2013 with his family near. Randal was born on December 25th, 1953 to Grant and Audrey Weber Tuft in Murray, Utah. Randy's journey in this life was amazing in his own quiet way. He loved and excelled at sports, in which he started his athletic career at Granite High School. Randy was always proud to be a Farmer. It was a fateful day the first day of his sophomore year when he bumped into who would become the love of his life and companion for over 40 years, Romaine. Randy and Romaine were married December 20th, 1972, both at the age of 18. They were able to spend their 40th wedding anniversary together this past December. Randy attended Snow College and Utah State University, in which he competed in two sports: football and track. He was a natural offensive tackle, but couldn't stand not helping those that he knocked down back up. The shot put came natural as he, on his way in from baseball practice, threw a stray shot put back to the coach over 45 feet. The track coach convinced him to quit baseball. Randy loved his college career. His senior year at Utah State he received the Joe E. Whiteside award, which was given to the athlete that excelled both academically and athletically. It was the largest ring size that Utah State had ever given out. Randy was invited to tryout in the NFL, being sent invites from the Raiders and Bengals. He chose to stay close to his family and continue his education and coaching career. He received a Master's degree in education from Brigham Young University. He spent the next 30 years on a football field. Randy found true success came not in wins and losses, which was a blessing because the losses came more frequent than the wins, but in developing his players into young men who would be successful in life. He was the unwavering example of this to those around him. He cherished the lifelong relationships that he gained through his coaching years more than any amount of championships that could have been won. His influence was felt deeply in the lives of his players and students and we are comforted to know his example will continue on through them. Randy's other passions in life were varied and many. If he was not on a field or court, he could be found, in his blue overalls, pouring concrete, sheet rocking walls, finding a nail that needed to be hammered, gardening, cooking, painting, sewing, reading, shoveling snow for the neighborhood, taking his nieces and nephews sledding, finding a neighbor that needed a big hand and helping Romaine with various jobs at Hazen Nursing Home. If something did not fit, Randy made it fit. If something couldn't be lifted, Randy would lift it. When his yard needed to be leveled, he harnessed a railroad tie to his back and leveled it himself. The only thing that was bigger than his heart was his hands, and they wanted to work. Randy loved the ocean and Disneyland. There were many trips planned to both, but life got in the way. He loved his family with a passion. Never quick to raise his voice, he taught his children through example and encouragement. Randy and Romaine created a home filled with love and compassion. The doors were always open for fun or advice. Times were not always easy, and the road was never smooth, but Randy found true joy in his family. Even in declining health there was never a harsh word spoken or unkind thought. Randy had a gift to find the good in every situation. If he could not run he would walk. When he couldn't walk, he would crawl. When he could no longer do either he would scoot on his bum. When that also failed he would still find a way. He had a hard time adjusting from being 6'5 to 4'8 in his wheelchair, but he was a demon in that jazzy . If he had a last message to anyone it would be to find the good . Randy had a special relationship with his Savior. He was honest, humble, kind, loving and loyal, and through his trials he continued to faithfully endure to the end. He truly was a gentleman and a scholar. Randal is survived by his wife, Romaine, children: Grant (Jamie), Amy (Victor) Aivale, and Greggory (Jamie); grandchildren: Avaree, Statler & Audrey; Mother-in-law, Phyllis Peck; siblings: Claudia (Rob) Morgan, Kathy (Cy) Schmidt, Stephen (Karen) Tuft, & Carolyn Tuft; brothers-in-law: Ed (Cindy) Peck, Doug (Melanie) Peck & Brian Peck. Preceded in death by parents: Grant and Audrey Tuft, father-in-law: Edward H. Peck and niece Kirsten Hinckley. A visitation shall be held for family and friends on Wednesday, January 23 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Bennion 4th ward, 6250 So. 2200 W. Memorial Services will be held Thursday, January 24th, 2013, 1:00pm also at the Bennion 4th Ward. Visitation with family and friends 12:00-12:45p.m. prior to the service at the church. Hobbies:Gardening, cooking, painting, sewing, reading, sledding and being with family and friendsOccupation:Coach