Randolph Lee Baunton (Randy) (1934-2021)

Born in Seattle, WA to Elsie and Harold Baunton on Dec 25th, 1934. Randy passed away peacefully at the home surrounded by loved ones on October 19, 2021.

Randy grew up in Ballard and worked in his father's butcher shop at the Pike Place Market. He also played percussion in the Seattle Youth Symphony. By age 16 he was playing part-time in the Seattle Symphony Orchestra (SSO). With a scholarship to the Curtis Institute of Music, he studied with Fred Hinger, the renowned timpanist of the Philadelphia Orchestra. He became the Principal Percussionist in the SSO until his retirement 50 plus years later. As part of his legacy, a room will be named in his honor at Benaroya Hall.

From 1974-76 he was the chairman of the negotiating committee for the Seattle Symphony, Opera and PNW Ballet on behalf of the American Federation of Musicians Union Local 76. Experiencing growing dissatisfaction with rising dues and poor support for the Symphony musicians by the AFM, he ultimately became the driving force in forming a new union, what is now the International Guild of Symphony, Theater, Opera and Ballet Musicians.

Randy and his beloved wife Jan, who predeceased him, enjoyed hosting elaborate parties full of laughter and good food. He managed extensive renovations of over 12 houses. He loved boating the waters to Alaska and he owned waterfront property on Cortes Island, BC, where he also rebuilt its rustic cabin.

He had a big heart and touched many lives.