Randall Soutiere

Randall Joseph "Randy" Soutiere, 58, passed away on December 26, 2025, in Bladenboro, North Carolina. Born on July 13, 1967, in Burlington, Vermont, Randy lived a life marked by service, perseverance, and a deep passion for engineering and aviation.Randy graduated from Immaculate High School in Danbury, Connecticut. He went on to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida—an early step in what would become a lifelong dedication to aviation and mechanical excellence. He furthered his education with an Associate of Science degree in Jet Engines and Power Plant Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Committed to continuous learning and professional growth, Randy later earned both a Bachelor of Science in Total Quality Management and a Master of Business Administration from Newman University in Wichita, Kansas.A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Randy served with distinction as a Sergeant at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita. He was a member of the 384th Air Refueling Wing and remained a steadfast supporter of U.S. service veterans throughout his life.Following his military service, Randy built an accomplished career in aviation maintenance and management. He worked for many years at Cessna Aircraft Company in Wichita before becoming General Manager at a Citation Jet Maintenance Repair & Overhaul facility in Mesa, Arizona. A licensed airframe and power plant mechanic as well as a licensed pilot, Randy brought technical expertise and leadership to every role he undertook.After battling throat cancer with remarkable resilience, Randy embraced new ventures with characteristic determination. He purchased and operated a sports/karaoke bar and restaurant for five years—a testament to his love for music, food, and community. Though the business eventually closed its doors, Randy continued to explore opportunities in teaching and sales.Randy's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. He loved engineering challenges, found joy in cooking for others, cherished music—especially karaoke—and held deep pride for his country. His commitment to excellence was evident not only in his professional achievements but also in the way he lived each day with purpose.He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Beverly Drinkhouse of Essex Junction, Vermont; his son Joshua Soutiere of Wichita, Kansas; his domestic partner Deborah Hester of Bladenboro, NC; her daughter Hilary Johnson and husband David Johnson; and their son Atlas. He is also survived by his brothers: Phil Soutiere (wife Paula) of North Hero, VT; Jerry Soutiere (wife Carol) of Marathon, Florida; and Brad Soutiere (wife Betsy) of Jericho, VT.Randy was preceded in death by his father Bernard Soutiere and stepfather Ron Drinkhouse.May Randall Joseph "Randy" Soutiere's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who honor lives lived with courage, curiosity, and heart. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 3 St Peter St., Winooski, VT 05404 followed by a funeral luncheon and Celebration of Life from 12:30 PM to 03:00 PM at American Legion Post 91, 3650 Roosevelt Hwy, Colchester, VT 05446.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org), 2361 Staten Island, NY 10306, email: donations@t2t.org, to help end veteran homelessness.To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Randall Joseph Soutiere, please visit our flower store.

Randall Joseph Soutiere