Randy Alfred Clarke

Randy Alfred Clarke, 61, of East Syracuse, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. Born on November 4, 1963, in Utica, NY, he entered the world marching to the beat of his own drum—a rhythm that stayed with him for life.

A gifted carpenter for 42 years and co-owner of Four Seasons Sunrooms in the ‘90s, Randy literally built a life he could be proud of. He had a knack for turning stacks of lumber and boxes of nails into something lasting—homes, decks, sunrooms—you name it, he could build it. If you ever drove through Syracuse with him, you’d inevitably hear, “See that sunroom over there? I built that.” And he would beam with pride, as if pointing out one of his kids.

For those who had the chance to work with him, whether for a day or a decade, you probably walked away with a few stories, a nickname, and definitely some unsolicited coaching along the way. Working alongside him meant getting equal parts frustration and admiration—the kind of experience that made people shake their heads and say, “Oh, Randy.”

Randy’s rhythm wasn’t just found in his work—it was in drumming through life. Long before you heard his voice you’d often hear his tapping, and no surface was off-limits. His favorite stage was behind the wheel of his truck, where the steering wheel became a snare, the dashboard a rack tom, and that little tree-shaped air freshener was his symbol. But when that wasn’t enough, he went all in—setting up his full drum set in his living room (and even a second-floor bedroom), jamming out with no care for the neighbors or anyone else in the house. You could often find his truck parked outside The Music Center or him tucked in a crowd, watching a live band. He wasn’t there for the scene—he was always there for the sound.

He was also a loyal fan through and through—whether the Miami Dolphins, the Syracuse Orange, or the New York Yankees were at the top of their game or in a struggling season, he wore his team hats with pride.

Fiercely independent yet endlessly generous, Randy gave without hesitation, never needing recognition—just the quiet satisfaction of knowing he had made someone’s day a little easier. He had a quick wit, a strong presence, and a way of getting you to laugh even when you didn’t want to.

But more than anything, his deepest and most unwavering love was for his children—the center of his world, his greatest source of pride, and the heartbeat of his life.

Randy is survived by his beloved children Rosa Martin (Bobby), Erica McPhetridge (Travis), Marko, Randall, Jessica, Ella, and his granddaughter Zoey, who brought him immense pride.

In lieu of flowers—because Randy wasn’t much of a flower guy—pick up the tab for someone else at a diner, no spotlight or recognition needed, just a quiet gesture the way he often did. After all, diners were his second home—the kind of places where they knew his order, and he could add to the morning banter before heading on his way. And if you do, maybe tap a little drumbeat on the counter before you go, knowing he’s nodding in approval from above.

Calling hours will be held at Mathewson-Forani Funeral Home, 206 Kinne St., East Syracuse, on Wednesday, March 19, from 10 AM – 1 PM. 

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