John (Randy) Randolph Goss

John “Randy” Goss, 79, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, a little before midnight, at the Center for Hospice in Elkhart. He was surrounded by care and love and was not in any pain.  

Randy was born September 23, 1946. He lived a full and interesting life and had a personality that was uniquely his own. He was known for his quick wit, his sense of humor, his independent spirit, and, most of all, his love for his family.  

Randy was an accomplished wrestler in his younger years, earning the Indiana State Championship Wrestler Award for two consecutive years, in 1964 and 1965, and was later in 1981 inducted into the Wrestling Hall of Fame.   

He proudly served his country in the United States Army and received an honorable discharge.  

Throughout his life, Randy had many interests, but he was perhaps best known for his love of playing the harmonica and flying his drones– two passions that brought him great enjoyment and gave him plenty to talk about.  

Randy also had an especially interesting career as Photo Studio Manager for Playboy Magazine. It was a job that many people found fascinating, although Randy never shared many details about that chapter of his life. He seemed to enjoy leaving a little mystery behind.  

Randy and Lin were just… Randy and Lin. Their life together was filled with memories, adventures, laughter, and the kind of stories that will continue to be told for years to come.  

Above all, Randy was a family man. He cherished his family and will be deeply missed by those who loved him and by the many people whose lives he touched throughout his years.  

Randy is survived by his loving family: wife Lin Goss; sister Carole Jones; sons Cary (Anne) Goss and Tyler Goss; grandchildren Thatcher, Cameron, Piper Goss, Stella and Payton, nieces Marne (Brian) Stinger, Stephanie Jones (Ashley) Knowles, Allison (John) Hupp and nephew Tom (Yana) Goss; Sister-in-law Jean Goss; and many other extended family members and friends.    

Randy was preceded in death by his brother William “Bill” Goss and his brother-in-law, Jim Peterson.

Randy leaves behind a lifetime of memories, stories, laughter, music, and a little bit of mystery. He will be remembered, missed, and loved always.  

A private burial will take place at Highland Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held October 3, 2026 from 12 pm - 4 pm at the home of Brian & Marne Stinger, 24372 Sandpiper Lane, Elkhart, Indiana 46514.  

The family of Randy Goss extends heartfelt gratitude to the teams at Seniors Helping Seniors, Susan and RaeLee, Paradigm Health, St. Joseph Hospital and The Center for Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, and dignity they provided to Randy. The family is especially grateful to Paula, Sheryl, and Jessica for their guidance, kindness, and loving care. Their presence and support brought comfort and peace to Randy and his family during this difficult time.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made in Randy’s memory to Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.

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