Rande Hemingway

With great love and fond memories, we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Rande Carroll Hemingway.

Rande was a man of profound love, humor, endless stories and unyielding faith. He departed this world for his next great adventure in Heaven on July 17, 2024 at the age of 76. He left us all with hearts full of love and a lifetime of cherished moments.

Rande was born in Owatonna, Minnesota on July 26, 1947 to Richard and Carol (Mattson) Hemingway, and from a very early age he had a genuine ability to see people. This was his gift. He had a special talent for turning strangers into friends, making you laugh, welcoming you with a very big hello and often with a witty remark. If you met him, you loved him, and once you were part of his circle, you were there for life.

His love story with Cleone was nothing short of extraordinary. They were a true duo that moved as one. The life that he and Cleone built was rooted in the belief that everyone belongs, all are welcome, and we are all God’s children. Their marriage was filled with love notes, countless drives, great food and a belief that they never had enough time together. Married on July 22, 1966 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield, Monday, July 22, 2024, celebrates the 58th Anniversary of their beautiful marriage.

A man of deep faith, Rande found comfort and strength in the Lord. His faith was a guiding light, leading him through life’s challenges with grace and an unshakeable trust in God’s plan. He was often found sharing wisdom from his favorite scriptures, always with a twinkle in his eye. Rande leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, smiles and big waves. He worked in the restaurant industry for over 40 years, owning The Chalet Café in Ostrander, The Port in Elkton, and Last Chance Café in Rose Creek.

Rande is survived by his wife, Cleone Hemingway; children, Sheri Felton, Danielle (Peter) Wendt, Rande (Jamie) Hemingway Jr., and Kimberly Hemingway; 10 grandchildren; Rande claimed to have 16 great grandchildren (it was actually 13 with one on the way), all who carry a piece of his heart.

Though he has left us in body, Rande will forever be a part of our lives, inspiring us to love deeply, to spend time with family and to put it simply laugh!

In his honor, we ask that you take a moment today to hug someone you love, give a good handshake and perhaps turn a stranger into a friend.

A visitation was held from 2-5 pm on Sunday, July 21st at the Adams Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to: Bethany Bible Church in Leroy, Minnesota or St. John’s Lutheran Church in Elkton, Minnesota.