Randy Forden, a dedicated welder and beloved family man, passed away in the early morning hours on March 4, 2026, at the age of 66. Born on November 21, 1959 to Rueben and Arleita Sherman Forden, Randy grew up and graduated from Sutherland High School. In 1977, he met the love of his life, Jeanie Thompson, creating a bond that would last throughout their lives together. Randy and Jeanie were wed in 1981, and to this union two children were born, Annette and Michael.

Randy’s passion for welding began early on. After high school, he embarked on a lifelong career at Scotty's Welding, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation as a meticulous craftsman. In the early 2000s, Randy started his own business, Forden’s Ironworks. His talent was evident in every project he undertook. He was a natural problem solver, demonstrating remarkable ingenuity, especially when it came to working with metal. Randy enjoyed hobbies such as hunting, trap shooting, and flying model airplanes.

Randy will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for the love he shared with his family and friends. His ornery spirit, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail have left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Jeanie Forden of Sutherland; children, Annette (Ryan) Schultz of St. Francis, KS, and Michael (Kinsey) Forden of North Platte; grandchildren, Lane and Leyton Schultz, Keirra, Logan, and Jaxon Forden; siblings, Sherman (Kristine) Forden of Sutherland, Kris (Linda) Forden of North Platte; his parents-in-law, Bob and Nadine Thompson of Sutherland; sisters-in-law, Jacque (Dave) Street of Idaho, Laurie (Bob) Faust of North Platte, and Connie (Jeff) Fyfe of Louisiana; as well as many nieces, nephews, and other family.

Those that precede him in death are his parents; his brother, Byron Forden; nephews, Deone Forden and Hunter Fyfe.

The family encourages memorials be made to the Cow Pasture Youth Trap Club in Sutherland, NE. Online expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 12 PM to 7 PM with family present to greet others from 5 PM to 7 PM at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home. A private family service will be held. Adams & Swanson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.