Randy Claeys

Randy George Claeys, 38, passed away unexpectedly, Thursday, October 1, 2026, in Bettendorf. A celebration in honor of his life will be Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10 am at The Runge Mortuary. Visitation will be Thursday, October 8th from 4 to 8 pm, at the mortuary. Interment will be at the National Cemetery with military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may go to Randy’s family.

He was born, October 22, 1987, in Davenport, the loving son of Allen and Susan (Fury) Claeys. After graduating from North Scott High School in 2006, Randy enlisted in the US Army and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in April 2009. Following his service, Randy received a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona, Florida.

He served as a Product Development Specialist for John Deere for 10 years, however, being a talented craftsman, especially in woodworking and carpentry, Randy established and owned his

Company, Claeys Construction.

He met the love of his life, Brandy Lea Dawson and they married on October 28, 2017, at the Rock Island Botanical Center.

His strong family values brought him to join his father on the family farm. He took great interest in raising cattle and showed them in local community fairs. He won many blue ribbons and trophies, most proudly for “Best in Showmanship.” Randy was a strong supporter of 4H and often mentored and sponsored 4H members. Randy put others’ needs ahead of his own. He was the driving force behind many charities, memorials and benefits to support those in need. Randy was the kind of person who would always put his family ahead of his own needs. He gave his time, energy, and heart to his family without hesitation.

One of his many talents besides his cattle was baking and cooking, especially grilling. Some of the family favorites included delicious ribs, pot roast, and savory prime rib dinners. With his easy-going, magnetic personality, Randy never knew a stranger. He looked forward to his “wing and whiskey Wednesdays”. However, the greatest joy was spending time with family and his many friends.

Those left to honor his memory and carry on his legacy include his devoted wife, Brandy; son, Braeden Claeys; daughters, Hanna Huerta (Hunter Kaufman) and Isabel Huerta; parents, Allen and Susan (Fury) Claeys; brother, Brian (Erin) Claeys and their children, Rose, Grace and Jackson; Brandy’s parents, Dan and Lori Dawson; sister in law, Nikki (Chad) Holladay; brother in law, Dustin (Lindsay) Dawson nieces, Kaelyn, Annie, Emmry; nephews, Finley and Oliver; best friends, Charlie Guthiel and Quinn Smith, and his adorable fur-baby, Marley.

Preceding him in death are his grandparents, George and Rita Claeys and Bob and Gladys Fury.