Randy Vinson

Randy Vinson, 72, of Capitan, NM, was taken to meet his Lord and Savior on March 6, 2026. Randy was born on May 30, 1953, in Madill, OK. He graduated from high school in Coleman, OK, soon enlisting in the U.S. Army where he became a paratrooper and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division and was honorably discharged as SGT-ES.

Pursuing his love for animals, Randy graduated from Murray State College as a certified veterinary technician. While employed at a veterinary clinic in Denison, TX, he met the love of his life, Susan (Kumpf). They were married in 1983, spending 42 blessed years together. When Randy accepted a position with the Ruidoso Animal Clinic in 1984, the couple moved to Capitan, NM. Randy's love for the outdoors prompted him to apply for a seasonal position with the U.S. Forest Service Engine Crew out of Capitan where he embarked on a career in wildland fire. He later served two seasons as a member of the Smokey Bear Hot Shot crew until he was accepted at the North Cascades Smokejumper Base in Wmthrop, WA. After spending three seasons as a smokejumper, Randy became crew foreman for the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Roswell Hotshot crew. He then transitioned to Range Technician at Ft. Stanton, NM, where he worked for 25 years until he retired. While wildland fire remained a significant part of his career, Randy loved managing the BLM lands and wildlife waters in Ft. Stanton. He made many friends and treasured memories along the way.

Randy was a devoted and cherished husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time in the outdoors - hiking, running, hunting, fishing, and woodcutting. His strong faith in Jesus Christ shone a light on the path for his family to follow.

Randy is survived by his wife, Susan; his sons: Zachary ofNogal, NM and Jesse (Kristen) of Alto, NM; his daughter, Nathania (Quirt) of Claunch, NM, and 7 much-loved grandchildren who adored "Papa" -Abigaile, Rowan, Jackson, Zia, Hermione, Ryan, and Ainsley. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Fern and Jack John of Fillmore, OK.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services, but Randy will live on in the memories of those who knew him.