01/09/2025
Randall E. Spence, age 66, of Port Charlotte, FL, passed away Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Tidwell Hospice in Port Charlotte, FL.
Randall, otherwise known as “Skip” Spence, was born April 22, 1958, in Mt. Carmel, IL to the late Glen and Margaret (Hunter) Spence. He was a graduate of Reitz High School and Oakland City University, where he worked as a recruiter. Randall also worked in communications for several radio stations and was involved in starting the WAY-FM Christian radio network in Florida and Nashville." He also helped start WUFM, better known as RadioU, a non-commercial radio station licensed to Columbus, Ohio.
On Oakland City University’s Campus, Skip was a self-starter. He headed the new soccer program in January of 2000, and was a common sight around the campus and community. Outside of Soccer, Skip was the voice of the Mighty Oaks and commonly gave the play by play during many sports contests. He also functioned as an assistant sports information director from 1985-1987. Former OCU Athletic Director Dr. Mike Sandifar stated that “Skips enthusiasm was contagious to those around him, especially his players.” Randalls actions did not stop there. He then became the first head coach for the men's and women's new soccer program at OCU in January 2000. After serving some time as an assistant sports information director, Skip then found himself involved in Oakland City University’s admissions office assisting with recruitment.
Those on campus who remember Skip remember him as a self-starter and a volunteer. In athletics, no task was too much for Skip to handle. Skip would spend many nights at athletic events and assisting with operations wherever needed. One fond memory from friends is that when he would be giving the play by play on the radio during a ball game, he would then stand up and direct the Pep band during the media time out. Many on campus recall Skips' dedication to Oakland City University and note that he "bled blue” and was a true Mighty Oak.
In memory of Randall “Skip” Spence, friends and family have decided to set up a memorial fund to accomplish two projects that are underway in memorial of him. First, the athletic hall of fame will be renovated and named in his memory and second, an endowment scholarship will be established in his name.
To contribute to the Randall Skip Spence Memorial fund, visit us online at Oak.edu/give and under the “I would like to donate to” tab select “Randall Skip Spence Scholarship” or “Randall Skip Spence Hall of Fame.”
Checks or cash can also be mailed to Oakland City University at 138 N Lucretia Street, Oakland City IN 47660 to the attention of the Development Office.
