Born and raised in Cobourg, Randy attended Thomas Gilbard Public School and graduated from CDCI East in 1974. He studied at the University of Guelph before completing a diploma in Industrial Technology at Ryerson (1978). Growing up in town, he spent time at the Northumberland Ski Club, learned to sail at the Cobourg Yacht Club, and enjoyed local sports. These experiences shaped his appreciation for Cobourg’s waterfront, recreation, and strong sense of community.