UPDATE: Randall C. “Randy” Watnem, a cherished figure in the Humboldt community, has passed away at the age of 82. He died on November 2, 2025, at the West Bend Health & Rehabilitation Center, leaving behind a legacy of family, community involvement, and a passion for racing.
Born on May 25, 1943, in Algona, Randy was the son of Percy M. and Luella (Mitzven) Watnem. Raised near Ottosen, he excelled academically and athletically, earning All State Honors in football and track while graduating from Twin Rivers in Bode in 1961. His high school years were marked by a romance with Bonnie L. Schultz, which blossomed during her visits to Iowa.
After graduating, Randy moved to Kissimmee, Florida, to be closer to Bonnie, where he found work in construction. The couple married on February 3, 1963, in Lake Worth, Florida. They eventually returned to Ottosen and later settled in rural Humboldt, where they raised their family, including daughter Shelly and son Ryan.
Randy was known for his love of motorsports, particularly Thunder Trucks and NASCAR. His community involvement included membership in the Jaycees and even a candidacy for public office as a District 4 supervisor in Humboldt County. In recent years, health challenges limited his activities, allowing him to spend more quality time with his family.
Randy is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bonnie; daughter Shelly (Terry) Bickel; son Ryan (Nicole) Watnem; and grandchildren Gracyn, Mack, Mason, and Gabby. He is also remembered by his brothers, Allan Watnem of Iowa City and Bruce Watnem of Humboldt. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Paul, along with sisters-in-law Lois and Dorothea Watnem.
Memorial services are scheduled for 11 a.m. on Friday, November 14, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Humboldt. Visitation will occur from 10 a.m. until the service’s start. In a nod to Randy’s love for racing, attendees are encouraged to wear casual or racing attire. Following the service, Randy will be laid to rest at Union Cemetery.
The Mason-Lindhart Funeral & Cremation Service of Humboldt is handling arrangements, with additional details available at their website, www.masonlindhart.com.
This heartfelt farewell to Randy Watnem reflects the impact he had on his family and community, and his legacy will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.
