A Greenville Alumnus remembered for his service and love of nature

Published: September 16, 2024

Author: Liz Dowell

Greenville, Ill.– At Greenville University, the bonds formed during college often last long after graduation. This is especially true of Randy Bister, a late alumnus whose life and legacy continue to inspire all who knew him. A passionate outdoorsman and athlete, Randy was more than just a student at Greenville—he was a guiding light, embodying the values of service, friendship, and adventure.

His story holds special significance because Randy Bister truly embodied Greenville University's mission of service to the community. During his life, he gave generously of his time and energy, always seeking ways to help others.

PASSION FOR THE OUTDOORS AND HELPING OTHERS

His family continues this legacy by honoring him each year, ensuring that Randy's spirit of service lives on. Even after his passing, the Bister family remains dedicated to serving in his honor, carrying forward the same values that Randy cherished throughout his life.

Randy exemplified the University's mission of cultivating character, building community, and preparing students for leadership and service.

After graduating from Greenville College in 2008, Randy’s life was marked by his deep love for the outdoors and his unwavering commitment to helping others. His time at Greenville instilled in him values that continued to guide his life.

Following Randy’s passing from a rare form of leukemia in 2013, his family took on the task of keeping his memory alive.

“It’s not just about remembering Randy,” Laura Flanagan, Randy’s Mother, explained. “It’s about continuing the work he did. Randy was always serving others.”

VOLCANO RESCUE: WHERE ADVENTURE AND SERVICE CONVERGE

Randy’s commitment to service was evident in his outdoor pursuits. He was an active member of the Volcano Rescue Team, a volunteer organization that aids those stranded or injured in the wilderness. His involvement began in high school and continued throughout his college years.

The Volcano Rescue Team, formed in 1986, focuses on rescues in the Mount St. Helens area—one of Randy’s favorite places, according to his mother. To honor his memory, Randy’s family organizes events under the “Randventure” banner, including an annual Randy Bister Memorial Hike and Outdoor Safety Presentation, in partnership with the Volcano Rescue Team.

While Randy was still attending high school, the local newspaper in Battleground Washington featured an article about the VRT.

“The newspaper had a small write-up about the rescue team looking for volunteers to help people lost or injured in the wilderness,” Laura recalled. “I knew Randy would be interested.”

After a successful physical test, Randy joined the team, he even was called for late-night rescues and continued to serve with the VRT even during his college years. “I think he would have continued had he not gotten sick,” Laura said.

FOOTBALL, FAITH AND GU

Randy’s adventurous spirit also led to humorous moments with friends and coaches. Coach Tom Broomfield fondly remembers one such instance. “Randy was late to practice one day and showed up carrying a large metal bookshelf on his shoulders,” Tom said with a laugh. “When I asked where he got it, he said from near the First Christian Church. I had to tell him he’d taken it from my own house!”

Randy’s journey to Greenville began through his involvement in athletics and Christian faith. As a high school athlete in Battleground, Washington, he was recognized as a Christian athlete, leading to a letter from Greenville’s coach, Scotty Kessler.

“What Randy was, he was authentic,” said Kessler. “He was a great man and a pleasure and honor to have in our program.”

In one memorable moment, Randy showed up to football practice riding a small children's tricycle he had found on his way. The bike, complete with pink streamers on the handlebars, was something Randy thought was fun and unique, a perfect example of his playful and carefree spirit.

As Kessler described, "He came riding up on this tiny girls' tricycle with streamers on the handlebars. He just thought it was the coolest thing ever. That’s who Randy was—quirky, joyful, and completely unafraid to be himself. He turned something simple into a moment of fun and laughter for everyone."

The opportunity to play football while growing in faith and academics drew Randy to Greenville, where he found a tight-knit, supportive community.

Though Randy considered himself an average student, the encouragement he received from professors helped him succeed. He graduated with a degree in English, with an emphasis on environmental studies—a reflection of his passion for nature. This degree helped him land a job as a tugboat deckhand on the Columbia River.

CALL OF THE WILD

“There was a tug company where several employees attended Randy’s church,” Laura said. “Randy became fascinated with the work, and, thanks to his education, he secured the job despite stiff competition.”

Randy’s love for the outdoors was evident in everything he did, whether guiding whitewater rafting trips or summiting mountains like Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, and Mount Hood. He was always eager to share his passion with others.

At Greenville, Randy thrived not only in academics but also in campus life. He wrote for the local newspaper, coached gymnastics for local children, and was involved in numerous activities that reflected his adventurous spirit and dedication to service. His faith also deepened during this time, and he began preaching, feeling a strong call to ministry.

“He was a gifted speaker—articulate, inspiring, and moving,” Laura said. “He started preaching just before he got sick and continued for a few months after his diagnosis.”

Brian Elmore, Randy’s cousin, remembers Randy’s ability to connect with people on a personal level. "Randy had a natural ability to just talk about you," Elmore said, reflecting on their deep, one-on-one conversations. "He was always positive, full of energy, and focused on living life to the fullest."

COURAGE AND RESILIANCE

Randy’s life took a challenging turn in February 2011 when he was diagnosed with acute leukemia of ambiguous lineage, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Despite the difficulties, Randy remained steadfast in his faith and continued preaching until he was physically unable to do so. His courage and resilience inspired everyone around him.

Randy passed away on August 11, 2013, at the age of 27. Yet his legacy lives on, serving as a powerful reminder of how a Greenville University education can shape a life. His time at Greenville helped him develop into a man of strong character, deep faith, and a commitment to serving others.

THE GU EFFECT

The friendships Randy formed at Greenville were lifelong. Laura recalls how two of Randy’s best friends, Richard Wise and Alan Carroll, dropped everything to be by his side during his illness.

“These men stopped everything they had going on in their lives to come be with Randy,” Laura shared. “They helped care for him, spent meaningful time with him, and even returned for his memorial service. It was a testament to the deep, committed friendships Greenville fosters.”

For Randy’s family, Greenville University remains a place where his spirit is alive and well. “Randy’s life was too big for this earth,” Laura said. “He continues to be our guiding light, and his legacy of service and adventure inspires us to carry on his work.”

KEEPING RANDY’S MEMORY ALIVE

To honor Randy, his family participates in outdoor activities each year that reflect his love for adventure. They also advocate for stem cell donation, a cause close to their hearts following Randy’s battle with leukemia.

Greenville University is proud to count Randy Bister among its alumni. His life is a testament to the university’s mission, and his story continues to inspire current and future students. Randy’s legacy of faith, courage, and love for people and nature will endure for years to come.

“Randy would want us to live fully and with purpose,” Laura said. “It’s not about how you start the race, but how you finish it. Randy would remind us to focus on what matters—helping others, having deep conversations, and living with intention.”