It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Randal Harteau, 74, on December 26, 2023. He left this world peacefully from the comfort of his home.

Born on September 22, 1949 in Milwaukee, WI. Rand was the eldest son of Calvin and Julianna (Kuchma). Rand lived a life dedicated to his wife, family, and community. He was known for his love of God, culture, music, cooking, history and a passion for knowledge. Prior to graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Rand attended Cudahy High School where he met the love of his life, Charlene (Charapata). Rand and Char were married on June 15, 1973 and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year.

Rand is survived by his adoring wife, Char, and children Suzanne Madden (Michael), Steven Harteau (Renee), Christian Harteau (Kate), and Elyce Fischer (Andrew), his twelve grandchildren Olive and Sebastian Madden; Ava, Eleanor, Dominic, and Elyce Harteau; Bennett, Sylvie, and Theo Harteau; Rosalie, Field, and Zeke Fischer, and his sister Janell Harteau. He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Julianna Harteau, his in-laws Francis and Florence Charapata, and his brother-in-law Francis Charapata. He is further survived by other family and dear friends.

Strong, steadfast, and unconditionally supportive, Rand was the rock of the family. He could be counted on to offer a ride to the airport, babysit grandchildren last minute, bring over a meal (McDonald's), snow blow a driveway, or even teach you how to make crepes or eggs benedict. R.H. and Char enjoyed countless friendships over the years of his life.

In addition to running a branch of MAF Insurance Companies, Rand was known for having many hobbies and interests that he was passionate about. He instilled a love of music into his children and grandchildren. Throughout his life he mastered the guitar, banjo, and even the bagpipes. He could often be found on the living room couch strumming his guitar and humming along to everything from AC/DC to John Denver. He encouraged and inspired so many others to learn the guitar, even facilitating lessons for his two eldest grandsons, Bennett and Sebastian.

Rand was an amateur historian and genealogist. His vast library and knowledge on various historical subjects, such as the Roman Empire and military history, was impressive. In recent years he dedicated a considerable amount of time putting together a detailed family genealogy, identifying descendants back to 1575 from Paris, France.

Memorial visitation at the Funeral Home on Wednesday January 3, 2024 at 4:00-7:00 pm Prayer service at 7pm. A memorial mass will be held at the Basilica of St. Josaphat, 233 S. 6th Street, on Thursday January 4, 2024 at 10am.

Rand lived and demonstrated his Catholic faith daily. If desired, memorials in Rand's name may be made to Catholic Charities of Milwaukee, Community Projects for Seniors, or Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra.

Rand will be dearly missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Please join us in honoring the life of Rand as we celebrate the impact he had on our lives.