Randy Alexander Gresczyk: May 8, 1980 – July 15, 2025
Randy Alexander Gresczyk, Ozaawaagwaneyaash (Brown Feather in the Wind) and Anwaatin (Calm Water), age 45, passed away on July 15, 2025. He was born on May 8, 1980, the third son of Richard Gresczyk, Sr (Gwaykogaabaw) and Cheryl Geshick Gresczyk (Aabitaagiizhigookwe). She passed away in 2014.
After attending De LaSalle High School in Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota, Randy began teaching in 2002 at high schools and colleges in the Twin Cities until recently. He enjoyed teaching Native history and culture, drum and dance, and keeping the Ojibwe language alive.
Randy enjoyed karaoke, especially singing country western and was called Buffalo there. He enjoyed powwows and was an MC, an arena director and drummer and singer. There he was often nicknamed (mi)saabe (giant) or Bigfoot because of his commanding strength and size. He loved cards and video games, scrabble, cribbage and South Park. He liked to eat out in ethnic restaurants, going to movies and enjoying life. He was well-read, informed, intelligent, humorous and kind.
Randy was in and out of the hospital, diagnosed with cancer and finally given a couple days to live. He lasted a couple weeks at Jones-Harrison Assisted Living, a very caring facility. When he knew he was going to pass; he posted on Facebook and over 300 responded, stating their gratitude for the impact he had made in their lives. He passed away peacefully, visited by many close friends and family. His close cousin, Leonard Geshick, his dad’s friend, John Morrin, and his dad Rick, took turns camping out 24/7 at his bedside for two weeks. Some of his fellow drummers were pallbearers. Many close friends made those necessary things for his journey. His first-degree Midewiwin sendoff was done by a life-long friend, Keller Paap.
Survived by brothers, Richard Jr. (Nicole) and children Tyla (Tanner), Charlotte and Elizabeth; Rodger (Annie) and children Lewis, Maleia, Nyssa and step-son Keaton; adopted siblings Theresa, Melvin Sr. and Yoku and their families; his step-mother Sangthip “Pimpa”, step-sister Chalita and step-brother Chaninthorn; and many close friends who became his brothers and sisters; many amazing students; 24 exchange student brothers; many other relatives and friends.
Preceded in death by his mother, Cheryl Geshick Gresczyk; uncles: Thomas Gresczyk, Ernie Geshick and Joe Geshick; grandparents: Rose Geshick, Lewis and Bernice Gresczyk; and great grandmother: Mary Gresczyk.
A funeral service for Randy Gresczyk was held on Monday, July 21, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. at the Church of Gichitwaa Katerin in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Wright, Minnesota.
The Chilson Funeral in Winsted, Minnesota assisted the family with funeral arrangements. Online condolences can be directed to www.chilsonfuneralhome.com
Editors note: Randy was a mentor for the New Voices Program. Even as a young man he cared about and was emersed in his culture. The Circle mourns a huge loss for the Native community.
