Randy Pedersen, the Hall of Fame bowler who became the sport’s most recognizable broadcast voice, died Wednesday at age 64, the Professional Bowlers Association announced.
Pedersen won 13 PBA titles during his playing career, which ran from 1986 to 2002, including his only major title at the 1987 PBA National Championship. He grew up in Southern California before later settling in Florida.
In 2013, Pedersen won his first senior tour event at the PBA50 Dayton Classic in Dayton, Ohio.
His achievements on the lanes earned him induction into the PBA Hall of Fame in 2011, followed by enshrinement in the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame in 2025.
Beyond competition, Pedersen spent 25 years as the PBA’s lead color analyst after taking up broadcasting in 2001, a run the league says covered some of professional bowling’s most memorable moments of the 2000s.
PBA Commissioner Tom Clark remembered Pedersen as irreplaceable.
“Randy was supremely talented in everything he did. Bowling, golf, comedy, broadcasting, anything. He was a force, a giant in sports and on TV. He was our friend, our partner. Randy was our voice. He was my brother. I spoke with so many people today who loved him. There will never be another Randy Pedersen. Please hug the people you love.”
The PBA’s release credited Pedersen’s on-air presence directly: “With his signature blend of charisma, humor, and analysis, Pedersen elevated professional bowling for more than a quarter century.”
Former pro bowler and coach Bob Learn Jr. recalled crossing paths with Pedersen across three decades, from his first title in Union City, California, to his final tournament win in Dayton, Ohio.
“Everyone on tour has a story to tell about Randy, as he always had something funny to say. We traveled together when he won his first title in Union City, CA, and I bowled against him in the semi final when he won his last tournament in Dayton, OH nearly 30 years later. He was talented on the lanes and on the mic as the voice of the PBA over the past 20+ years. He will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Longtime bowling writer Lucas Wiseman paid tribute late Wednesday, hinting Pedersen may have been dealing with mental health struggles.
“Today is a tough day for the sport of bowling. The news will come out when it’s time. If you are struggling and need help, please reach out to someone. And if you don’t have anyone, call 988 and they will help you day or night.”
Wiseman later added: “RIP in an absolute legend in our sport. It was an honor to know him and spend time with him. Randy Pedersen, you will be missed by many.”
