Curtis Randall Janke

Curtis Randall Janke, age 60, entered into eternal rest on June 14, 2026, as the result of a tragic automobile accident. While our hearts are broken by his sudden passing, we find comfort in celebrating a life well lived and a man who left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Born on June 2, 1966, to Curtis Janke and Darleen Morgan Hogg, Randall grew up learning the values of hard work, loyalty, faith, and family. A proud graduate of Rogers High School’s Class of 1984, he spent his life doing what he loved: working hard and providing for those he cared about most.

Randall spent much of his life working in construction, transportation, and heavy equipment operations. He was an exceptionally talented heavy equipment operator who took great pride in building and improving underground utility systems throughout Texas. Whether operating excavators, loaders, tractors, or hauling grain across the state in large trucks, Randall was known for his skill, dedication, and strong work ethic. He loved being behind the wheel or at the controls of a machine and took great satisfaction in a hard day’s work and a job well done.

On June 2, 2007, he married Mary Ann Sutton Janke, the love of his life. Together they shared many years of love, laughter, and cherished memories. As Mary Ann continues her recovery from injuries sustained in the accident, the family asks for prayers and support during this difficult time.

Randall is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Janke; his children, Zachary Janke, Allison Janke, and Lauren Janke; his stepchildren, Chuck Hoffman, Chesney Padykula, and Dustin Hoffman; his mother, Darleen Morgan Hoggand Step Father David Hogg; his sister, Darla Lesikar and husband Shane; and many grandchildren, extended family members, and friends who will forever treasure his memory.

He was preceded in death by his father, Curtis Janke.

To know Randall was to know laughter. He never met a stranger and would gladly help anyone in need. Whether it was lending a hand, sharing advice, fixing something that was broken, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Randall gave freely of himself without expecting anything in return.

When he wasn’t working, he could often be found hunting, fishing, or spending time on the water chasing big catfish. Some of his happiest days were spent on the waters of Richland Chambers Reservoir, surrounded by family and friends, casting a line and making memories that would last a lifetime.

Randall was also a gifted storyteller. He could turn an ordinary event into a tale that left everyone laughing, and no gathering was complete without one of his stories. Whether sitting around a campfire, on a fishing dock, at a barbecue cook-off, or around the kitchen table, he had a way of bringing people together with humor and conversation.

A talented barbecue pit master, Randall proudly won several cook-offs over the years. More importantly, he loved gathering family and friends around good food, good stories, and plenty of laughter. He believed some of life’s best moments happened around a barbecue pit with the people you love.

Perhaps what people will remember most about Randall was his generous heart. He never hesitated to help someone in need. If a neighbor needed assistance, a friend needed advice, or a stranger needed a hand, Randall was there. He gave freely of his time, talents, and kindness without expecting anything in return.

Randall’s faith was rooted not in perfection, but in grace. He understood that every person falls short, and he believed in a God whose love, mercy, and forgiveness are available to all. He knew that faith wasn’t about being perfect—it was about loving others, helping those in need, and trusting in God’s promise of eternal life.

Though his time with us ended far too soon, the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will remain in our hearts forever.

As we honor Randall’s life, he would probably ask us not to spend too much time being sad. Instead, he would want us to tell a story, help a neighbor, fire up the barbecue pit, catch a fish, and spend time with the people we love.

And if you’re so inclined, raise a Natural Light in his honor and share a laugh. Randall, your work here is done. We are all better for having known you. Thank you for the friendship, the memories, the lessons, and the laughter.

May God welcome you home, and may we meet again on calmer waters someday.