Honored veteran Lt. Col. Randolph J. Scheel, age 68, died Saturday, June 10, 2006, at his home.

Randy was born July 16, 1937, in New Braunfels, Texas. His parents were Pheinhold and Tusnelda Scheel. He has one older sister, Betty Harder.

His earliest aim in life was to be in the Air Force. After graduating from Southwest Texas State University, he was commissioned through THE ROTC program in 1959 as a second lieutenant and served with distinctiion for 28 years.

He remained on active duty until February 1983, serving in the U.S., Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and the Vietnam War. He received numerous decorations to include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

He was team Commander for the live launch of a Titan II ICBM, and served as director of control operations aboard the E3-A AWACS.

Randy received his masters degree from Auburn University in 1973 and completed his AF career as the Squadron Commander of the 602nd Tactical Control Squadron in Neu Ulm, Germany.

Randy and Jo chose Mississippi for retirement, where he built their home, then became active in the community. He was chosen Senior Citizen of the year, was an Elder of the First Presbyterian Church and a member of the Picayune Kiwanis Club whose members are serving as honorary pallbearers today.

Randy is survived by Jo, his wife of 42 years, Kirk, Allison, Kourtney and Nips.