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Charles Randolph Moddrell, 54

by Daily Inter Lake
| August 12, 2005 1:00 AM

Charles Randolph Moddrell "Randy," "Mo" passed away Aug. 9, 2005, as a result of a motorcycle accident in Northwestern Montana. Randy was born July 20, 1951, in Wichita, Kan., to Joe and Jeanne (Peterson) Moddrell. He graduated from Kansas University and was a proud Jayhawks fan. His teaching degree in special education was the springboard to the rest of his vocational life, which was dedicated to the service of people who have a disability. He moved to the Flathead Valley of Montana in 1977, and among his employers were Flathead Industries, Lamplighter and Summit Independent Living Center.His passion for working with people was recognized by the many people and consumers who knew him. He was awarded the original Dan George Award by United Way for his innovative social-service activities. This, he felt, was one of his biggest professional accomplishments. His volunteer work followed his never-ending quest to help people with disabilities, as noted by his various activities with area agencies and programs. He was one of the original founders of the Special Friends Advocacy Program in Kalispell.During the past year, he reduced his workload to spend more of his time with his family, his home, tractor, power tools, grandchildren and motorcycle. An avid motorcyclist for many years, he loved to ride. On a recent adventure with some friends, he motorcycled across Australia. Besides motorcycles, he loved to play various sports, including tennis, squash, wheelchair basketball and, as of late, he maintained a love-hate relationship with golf.He is survived by wife, Gay; his children, Marie and Rusty Weber, Mike and Margie Henderson, Terry and Marisa Henderson, of Kalispell, Bill and Teri Henderson, and Tim and Lori Henderson of Reno, Nev.; his 10 grandchildren; his sister, Kathy, and Rod DePrey, and nephew, Peter, of Atlanta; father, Joe, and stepmother, Jean Moddrell, and nephew, James, of Wichita, Kan.; and numerous extended family members.Known as "Papa Mo" to his grandchildren, he was all that any child could ever hope for in a grandfather. His dedication and passion for his family was exemplified by the various family activities in which he took great pride and delight. His greatest life accomplishment was his family and friends.In keeping with his wishes, a potluck celebration of his life will be held at the family home Sunday, Aug. 21, beginning at 4 p.m. Car-pooling would he appreciated.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Special Friends Advocacy Program, or the charity of your choice.Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for Randy's family.