Donald Rankin

donald rankin
Donald Rankin, age 96 of New Hampton, IA 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, IA. 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, MN and John Rankin of New Hampton; his two daughters, Diana (Don) Ritchmond of Arden Hills, MN and Barbara (Gene) Dahlen of Waterloo, IA; 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.

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  1. I am so sorry to hear of Donald passing. I had just learned of Ella Mae’s passing. Even though we cousins were so spread apart in age being my father was the baby of 10 children, Don and Ella Mae held a soft place in my heart. My prayers go out to all of the Rankin family. Mary Ann (Easton) Kucera

  2. I will always cherish the kindnesses offered to me and my family by your mother and your family spirit. God Bless. Nanette Feuling

  3. My sympathy to all….Don was the person that started me out on my 38 years at ASCS/FSA. Oh….the stories I could tell….we worked hard and had a lot of laughs along the way…..I remember the day a few years ago I found a note on my desk…..a desk that was his many years before….that said he had been in and wondered if I had a job for him….he was a great public servant, a great boss, a fun person, a great family man….what better tribute can there be! Enjoy your memories, I know I am smiling thinking back and remembering….


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