RANKIN, Donald William 1919-2015

RANKIN, THOMAS, EASTON

Posted By: K.L. Kittleson
Date: 8/13/2016 at 17:56:26

Obituary for Donald Rankin

US VETERAN

Donald Rankin, age 96 of New Hampton, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, November 22, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family.

Memorials may be directed to First United Methodist Church of New Hampton or the donor’s choice.

Donald William Rankin was born August 31, 1919, the son of Ira P. and Sarah L. (Easton) Rankin in Strawberry Point, Iowa. He was a 1936 graduate of Strawberry Point High School.

He was united in marriage to Ella Mae Thomas on April 16, 1941 in Kahoka, Missouri. Ella Mae passed away on September 27, 2015. Donald served in the United States Army from March 9, 1943 to October 22, 1945 and served in the 106th Infantry and fought bravely at the Battle of the Bulge.

When Donald returned from the war He, Ella Mae and the first son, Ronald made their home in New Hampton where Donald drove a DX gas truck, worked at Mikkelson Ford Garage as a book keeper, was a mail carrier for the Postal Service and was employed by the US Department of Agriculture from 1956 to his retirement on January 3, 1983. Donald was active in Lions Club, a member of the American Legion for 70 years and a member of First United Methodist Church. Donald was also a member and served as president for NARFE (National Association of Retired Federal Employees). He enjoyed wood working, fishing, walking in the woods, spending time on his house boat in McGregor and vacationing with family and friends.

Donald is survived by his two sons, Ronald (Verna) Rankin of Big Lake, Minnesota, and John Rankin of New Hampton; his two daughters, Diana (Don) Ritchmond of Arden Hills, Minnesota and Barbara (Gene) Dahlen of Waterloo, Iowa; his sister-in-law, Beverly Rankin of Strawberry Point; six grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; a niece, Carol Rankin and nephew, Craig Rankin.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ella Mae and brother, Harold Rankin.

Source: Conway-Markham Funeral home