Family of Randy Chugg share their favorite memories

The family of a missing Jefferson City man recalls their favorite memories of 21-year-old Randy Chugg after his body was found along the Missouri River in Chamois Tuesday.

“We used to write music together,” said Chris Chugg, father of Randy Chugg. “We used to cook a lot. I taught him how to cook. We used to compare who was better and his was always better.”

Chugg was believed to have jumped from the Missouri River Bridge in Jefferson City in December.

Despite an initial search by the Jefferson City Fire Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Division, emergency responders were not able to find Chugg. The search was called off due to unsafe conditions for responders.

After nearly three months of searching for answers, Chris Chugg got the call from police that his son had been found, but wasn’t alive.

He told ABC 17 News the discovery broke his heart, but at the same time, he said he has a sense of peace knowing now that his son has finally been found.

“We’ll just move forward now, but we’re going to keep his name alive, do scholarships and everything in his name to keep him alive,” Chugg said.

Randy was a soldier up until recently, when family members say an injury forced him out.

His father Chris served his country as a Marine. He said he plans on giving Randy a special honor when he is laid to rest–a Purple Heart medal donated by ArmyGear.net.

“We’re going to pin it on Randy because he was our hero, with his military, and just something we’re going to do as a father and best friend to my son,” Chugg said.

He also said he has a message for those who helped in the search with donations and support.

“I’d like to thank everybody for just the messages, the prayers, the donations and everything to help us get to where we are to try to find him and bring peace to the family,” Chugg said.

Police said the autopsy for Randy Chugg was scheduled for Wednesday. Those results are not available yet.