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Rev. Dr. John Roberts Rankin

October 11, 1931 ~ February 24, 2008 (age 76) 76 Years Old
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Message from The Sabatini Family
April 4, 2008 8:57 AM

Message from Shirley Bishop
March 27, 2008 10:24 AM

I am so sorry for your loss of your father. I hope it will comfort you to remember that your father lives on through you and your son Tommy. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Message from John Swartz
March 25, 2008 5:05 PM

Deepest Sympathy to the entire Rankin Family. Rev Rankin was a Dear Friend of the entire Swartz family. He was always with us in time of need as the death of our grandparents, parents and uncles. He also was there for the good times such as the marriage of my Niece. He touched many lifes in California, Pa and beyond. He will be missed and remembered dearly. God Bless
Message from Frederick Glasser
March 23, 2008 1:38 PM

John Rankin was to my wife Kathy and me a father figure, a mentor, and a friend. We knew we were always welcome in the Rankin home. Starting with the "happenings" in 1968, we became a part of the family. John's counsel and practical instruction were invaluable during my seminary years, and I will always cherish the summer we spent at the First Presbyterian Church in California in 1973.

John had a fabulous sense of humor, a love for people, and a strong sense of his calling to ministry. We will never know, till we get to heaven, how many lives he touched, through the ripples he started in the lives of so many people who learned from him to touch the lives of others. His was a life well-lived, and he has indeed left a might legacy to his children -- and to all of us who remain.

May God sustain his family during these days of sorrow, and may the multitude of good memories carry you all beyond your grief to the hope we share, the hope that carried John, the assurance that we all will be reunited.

All our love to you, Bobbie, Becky, John, Beth, Rachel, and your families.

Fred and Kathy Glasser
Westerville Ohio
Message from Tommie Lynn Neely
March 22, 2008 6:31 PM

John and Family,
I am sorry for your loss and pray for you all every day. We did not know Mr. Rankin but felt as if we did some what through you John. If can do anything for the family please do hesitate to call on me.
Sincerely with Sympathy,
Tommie Lynn and Cara Neely
Message from David Riley
March 18, 2008 6:20 PM

John Rankin was a kind and benevolent man. May God continue to bless and be with each of you.
Message from Doug and Linda Davis
March 11, 2008 6:56 AM

Dear family, as we were growing up, one of my fondest memories is how we gathered on Christmas night as an extended family to celebrate and feast of course. My mom could never make it through Uncle John's grace without tears, and though we cry now for losing him, he is now celebrating with Christ and a greater extended family. We will miss him but we are grateful for his impact on our family. Love to all and see you on the 29th.
Message from Lyn Alimena
March 4, 2008 9:06 PM

I am friends with Rev. Rankin's son, John. We both work for Gwinnett County Police Department. I did not know Rev. Rankin personally, but just by knowing his son, I know he must have been a wonderful man, pastor and father, a true testimony to God's love. I send my sincerest condolences to the family. May the Lord comfort you all.
Message from Anita Cowden
March 1, 2008 11:28 AM

Dear Bobbie and Family,

Bobbie, you and Pastor John enriched my life tremendously. "Pastor" is my favorite title for ministers whose lives overflow with love for others, as John's did. You and Pastor John strengthened my faith in God and provided loving friendship and encouragement. Citing all the times you came to my aid would take too much space. So, I'll mention only one: when three very discouraged nursing students called John (myself, another from Mount Prospect, and another whom John had never seen). As we passed the phone from one to another, we could only cry incoherently. Finally, when the phone returned to me, I blurted out that we needed help. Pastor John helped me express our concerns more coherently and, somehow, managed to see us within a couple of days. (He offered to come that night if need be, during what I later learned was an exceptionally full week for even him.) Without John's counsel and encouragement, three student nurses might have quit that week.

As well, Pastor John was always there when my family needed him, long after he left Mount Prospect.

Bobbie, I will always be grateful that you and John and your children have been part of my life. I rejoice in John's life and rejoice for him that he is now with God. Even so, I miss knowing that he is on this earth; and I pray that God is bringing you comfort and joy as you grieve.

With much love,
Anita Cowden
Message from Tim and Sandy Parsons
February 29, 2008 9:53 PM

Mrs.Rankin and family,

We are very sorry about the loss of Reverend Rankin. He was a dedicated minister and good friend to so many. We considered him part of the family before we became a family. He performed the funeral service for Grandma (Jennie Sungala) who had been a long time member with FPC of California. We were married there by Reverend Rankin and our children were both baptized by him. Our family history(and undoubtedly many others') would not be complete without reference to Reverend Rankin. Thank you all so much for sharing him for so long. Our prayers are with you all.
God Bless you.
Message from Art & Martha McEvoy
February 29, 2008 10:11 AM

Our sincere condolences to John's family and friends. His wonderful legacy will continue in his wife, his children and his grandchildren.
Message from Tom and Neth O'Brien
February 29, 2008 6:04 AM

It's not going to be the same when I come home and go into the front lawn and not see Mr. Rankin there, he will be missed.
Message from phyllis mcevoy
February 28, 2008 4:11 PM

God bless....
Message from Tim and Diann Quigley
February 28, 2008 1:08 PM

Our prayers are with you. We will miss him very much.
Message from Amani Burrrell
February 28, 2008 12:18 PM

Lt. Rankin, what a legacy your father leaves behind! God bless you and your family as you celebrate your father's life in his homegoing services.
Message from Vanessa Smith
February 28, 2008 8:45 AM

You and your family have my sincerest condolences and you will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from Jody Giedratis
February 28, 2008 8:22 AM

Rachel and Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your wonderful growing family. Many condolences.
Jody and Family (Lafayette College Friend)
Message from Michele Strelecki Hartle
February 27, 2008 9:33 PM

On my fridge next to pictures of my Baba and Gram is a picture of the Rev in the safari jeep taken at VBS 2005.

February 15th was the last time we spoke. He told me he loved me, and I the same, and little Anna said, "I love Reverend Rankin too!". I could hear his heart melt, and I gave the phone to Anna. I could hear the smooches he was giving her.

We love the Rev so much. And it's still hard to believe he's gone. I will miss our late night conversations; I already do.

Thank you Rankin family, for sharing this one-of-a-kind man with the world. Our love and prayers are with all of you; Mrs. Rankin, Becky, John, Beth, Rachel, and the grandkids. We grieve with you.

Michele, Kevin, Joey and Anna
Message from Lee & Billie Robinson
February 27, 2008 7:30 PM

Barb and family, We were so sorry to hear of John's death and wish to extend to you our deepest sympathy. To those of us from Mt. Prospect Church, he was truly a special man. May God grant each of you strength and comfort at this time. Lee and Billie Robinson
Message from Jeanine (Robinson) Miles
February 27, 2008 7:25 PM

To the entire Rankin family, I extend my sincere sympathy. As a teenager at the time of Rev. Rankin's service to the Mt. Prospect Church I thank him for teaching me of God's love. How I remember all of those sermons we had to outline for Communicant's Class!! He helped build my foundation of faith. May God grant each of you peace. Jeanine (Robinson) Miles
Message from Brian P. Bittner
February 27, 2008 6:40 PM

Rev. Rankin played a major part in my family for many, many years. I have many fond memories of Christmas Eve services with Rev. Rankin potraying a different character from Bethlehem every year. As a young child, I always wanted to stand next to him and hold his hand for final prayer at the end of a Sunday service. I always felt proud and blessed to be standing there. Rev. Rankin will be greatly missed, yet the impact he made on so many lives will always be remembered.
Message from Ruth and Chub
February 27, 2008 6:19 PM

"O death, where is thy sting? O grave, thy victory? ... the gift of God is eternal life!" Bobby, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We have been "going back" to John's hymn sings, etc. Many fond memories, yes! We are so glad that we saw you and John at Joan's funeral last year. God be with you!
Message from Hollie and Stan Glumac
February 27, 2008 4:10 PM

John was a great guy and wonderful preacher. He married us 35 years ago and baptized our children. His sermons were heartfelt and helpful. We will always have fond memories of him and his family. So many people will be affected by his absence. Our prayers are with you.
Message from Chris Gennaula
February 27, 2008 1:38 PM

My deepest sympathy.
Message from John Curtioff
February 27, 2008 10:55 AM

Rev.Rankin brought me back to the church when I was in college. He introduced me to my wife, married us, baptized both our boys, and married one of my sons. He has been a great influence in my life and I am deeply saddened by his passing. My heart goes out to Barb and the family at this time of sadness.
Message from Norm Howard
February 27, 2008 10:30 AM

I'm so sorry for your loss. Stay Strong you will see him again one day.
Message from Bill Jack
February 27, 2008 9:26 AM

The Rankin family has been added to our prayer list.
Message from Sherrill & Alanna McVay
February 27, 2008 8:42 AM

Barbara and family, know that we are keeping you all in our hearts and prayers. John was an amazing man who had such a profound way about him in all he did. He was so proud of you, his family, and he always spoke highly and lovingly about your accomplishments. He touched our family in so many ways. He married Sherrill and I at my Dad's bedside, and for the last fourteen days of my Dad's life, John came to the hospital every night at 11PM to have prayer with us and he had a prayer service in the funeral home the night before my Dad's Catholic funeral. He baptized our children, he presided at my Mom's funeral. He was a frequent welcome guest in our home and we consumed countless pots of coffee while we talked. So many times on Sunday mornings as we left First Presbyterian Church I felt that thru God, John had known what may have been on my mind or in my heart and that in his sermon he was talking directly to me - he always had the exact words that I needed to hear. When our son was hospitalized at age 3 with diabetes, John visited daily to pray with us. Our lives were truly blessed for having had John as a pastor and friend. He will always remain in our hearts.
Sherrill, Alanna and family
Message from Linda Mudry
February 27, 2008 8:05 AM

You were not only a special minister to us at the Roscoe Presbyterian Church but also a special friend. You will never be forgotten and will always be in our hearts. Sincerely with love, God Bless Linda Mudry
Message from Mary Ellen Ottaway
February 27, 2008 7:35 AM

I have never had the honor of meeting Rev. Rankin but have known his son for 10 years and have the utmost respect for him. Please know that I am praying for the family and we need to just believe Romans 8:28 to be true.
Message from Tracy Rankin
February 27, 2008 7:33 AM

It is with deep sadness that I write this. I want to thank Dad Rankin for being a wonderful father-in-law for almost 10 years and a great "Papa" to our dear Tommy. I will miss you a great deal and will love you forever. I pray for God to give Mom Rankin comfort during this difficult time as well as John,Becky, Beth and Rachel.I am here for all of you.
Message from Katie Newman
February 27, 2008 7:25 AM

Lt. Rankin, I'm very sorry for your loss. Your father sounds like a wonderful man who dedicated his life to helping his community and I regret not having had an opportunity to meet him. My condolences to you and your family. --Recruit Newman
Message from Marcia Callahan-Smith
February 27, 2008 6:50 AM

John & Family, I just wanted to take a moment and let you know how impressed I was with all that your father had accomplished. He seems like he was a wonderful man who will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this time.
Message from Art & Doris VanDerStuyf
February 27, 2008 6:47 AM

As Jesus not only died for the world - every nation and tongue - He also died for us. He created a plan for all to live with him forever. We truly believe that all the good work that John did on earth will continue - if not through him - through his plan that he left - for us to carry on.
Message from Chris and Renee Rafanelli
February 27, 2008 6:40 AM

Lieutenant Rankin, I am sorry to hear about the loss of your father. I hope you will take comfort in knowing that he is now seated at the right side of the one he served and worshipped his entire life.
Message from Arlene Grey
February 27, 2008 6:40 AM

Dear John,
Sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. Mmy deepest sympathy to you and your family in difficult time.
Arlene Grey(TSSU)
Message from Dan Green
February 26, 2008 9:12 PM

I am so sad to hear of the passing of Rev. Rankin on Feb 24th. He officiated the marriage of me and my wife (Donna Kish Green) exactly 40 years ago on Feb 24th 1968 at Mt. Prospect Church in Hickory. He was loved by so many members of the Mt. Prospect and Hickory communities. He will be missed.
Message from Diane Caldwell Flynn
February 26, 2008 8:59 PM

Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of John. My parents, Jerry and Carol Caldwell always spoke fondly of the Rankin family as we worshipped together at Hickory U.P. Church. I was told that John baptized myself and cousin Eric Cowden together in 1965 at Hickory. I remember with great fondness how you invited me into your home once while I attended Cal U in the mid 1980's. You are all in our prayers.

Peace, Diane Caldwell Flynn and Carol Caldwell
Message from Ed Byers
February 26, 2008 7:50 PM

Dear John,

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I read his obituary and was so impressed with his life-long devotion to God and His church. He certainly leaves behind a wonderful legacy for his family. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Message from Sandra Phillips Mink
February 26, 2008 7:22 PM

So sorry for your loss. John was a fine man.
Message from MARION HENDERSON MENO
February 26, 2008 6:38 PM

DEAR BARB.....SO SORRY TO LEARN OF YOUR LOSS....I REMEMBER ALL THE GOOD TIMES YOU AND I HAD TOGETHER WHEN JOHN WAS AT MT. PROSPECT CHURCH.....THE FRIENDSHIP WITH YOU AND JOHN IS A WONDERFUL MEMORY.
Message from Sherri Smith
February 26, 2008 6:17 PM

Your family has my deepest condolences. I had the great pleasure of meeting Rev. Rankin and his wife while the Roscoe Presbyterian Church hosted the Roscoe Mops. I will never forget the time, words or the learning experience Rev. Rankin so willing gave to the Mops group.
My prayers to the family. (Sherri)
Message from Joyce Preston
February 26, 2008 6:13 PM

LT Rankin and family I am sorry for your loss, may the peace of God that passes all understanding be will the family during this your loss
Message from rosemary capanna
February 26, 2008 6:09 PM

john and becky, my deepest condolences. i have some fond memories of your father from my childhood. i'll never forget how he sang "god loves a cheerful giver" with that booming laugh. to the entire rankin family -- my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Message from Paul & Nancy Handler
February 26, 2008 6:08 PM

Please except our thoughts and Prayers.
Message from John Rankin
February 26, 2008 5:24 PM

Dad was always fond of saying, "you have all the time there is"- a phrase he heard often from his brother Harry. Well, Dad ran out of tomorrows on Sunday- his favorite day. Please take the time to visit with your parents and family. Dad is visiting with his father and Mother now. I'll look forward to seeing family and friends on March 29th, and please..give church a try.
Message from Cheryl (Green) Finney
February 26, 2008 4:34 PM

Barbara and Family, I loved "John R" as we called him in Hickory. I am Bette Green's daughter and, as my brother ,Rick, just wrote, he officiated my joining church also. I cherish the Bible that is signed by him. He's been long gone from Hickory but never out of our hearts. My Mom and I send our sympathy to you and the family.
Message from Cliff & Mary Williams
February 26, 2008 4:29 PM

Dear Bobby & Family: Sorry to read about your loss and want you to know that you have our deepest sympathy. I served on the Pulpit committee when we were lead to him for The Mount Prospect Presbyterian Church in Hickory. Was a pleasure to serve as Trustee and Ruling Elder while he was the Pastor. I know that the Lord has a place for him. Love Cliff & Mary
Message from Joan Stark
February 26, 2008 4:23 PM

John Rankin (fondly called Father John by us college kids) was a big influence in my life. I met my husband at his house, he married us and baptized both of our children even marrying one of them in the Roscoe church. I am saddened by his passing. condolences to Barb and the family at this time. My thoughts are with you.
Message from Rev. Dr. Allyn Ricketts
February 26, 2008 4:21 PM

Received a call this afternoon to let me know that Rev. Rankin has gone to be with the Lord. Sometimes it does not seem that long ago that we gathered in the parsonage for the "happenings" while at California in the early 70s. Some of us who met for the college Bible study in those day still get together. The impact of the ministry of Rev. & Mrs. Rankin has been long lasting.
Message from Steven Shaw
February 26, 2008 3:58 PM

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Dr. Rankin, but have known his son as a co-worker, employer, and as a friend for several years.

After what appears to be a life wholeheartedly dedicated to serving others, my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Rankin.
Message from Dick and Barbara Huber
February 26, 2008 3:33 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Bobbie, and with the entire family. We will forever remember "backwards" to times We shall never forget, and we look forward to that time when we will all be reunited in the Kingdom - a place where God promises to "makes all things new".
We Love You - Barb and Dick
Message from Kelly & Chris Sesco
February 26, 2008 2:38 PM

Rev. Rankin was a wonderful man. He blessed so many people along the way. We feel truly blessed to have had him marry us in September. He did what no other would, and for that we are very thankful. Our thoughts and prayers to Barb and family.
Message from Patricia & Bruce Blair
February 26, 2008 2:36 PM

Barbara and family you have our deepest sympathy.
Message from Jeff McEvoy
February 26, 2008 2:11 PM

Just prior to baptizing my daughter Keaton, his first grand-daughter, John's words stuck with me. He said that Keaton was lent to us by God. I feel very fortunate to have known John for as long as I did and to have him as my father-in-law and grand father to my children. Thank you God for the loan. We are all wealthier for it.
Message from Andrew & Dawn Van Der Stuyf
February 26, 2008 1:13 PM

May God bring peace to you in your time of sorrow.
Message from Cora & Dave Narigon
February 26, 2008 11:47 AM

Dear Barb & Family,

We know what a great loss your family has suffered, but anyone who knew John has also lost a wonderful person. I will always remember the night my mother passed away. John was at the hospital with my dad, Dave & Fred and he came to my house to tell us girls about mom. He sat in my rocking chair and explained to my 2 boys & nephew about their grandma going to live with Jesus. That is a scene I will never forget. John was many things to many people. All our love & sympathies to you all.
Dave & Corky Narigon
Message from Phil Hayes
February 26, 2008 10:58 AM

It is with sorrow that I read of the passing of Dr. John Rankin. John was a friend. I am not a religious person, it did not matter to John. He accepted me as a friend and never judged me. I missed the contact that I had with him when he was pastor in California,Pa. I will always remember his support and help during the teachers' strike. He never judged, but did try to advise and support. He will be missed. I am glad that I had a chance to call him friend. Condolences to his family. Phil and Ann Hayes.
Message from Toni Porterfield Hartley
February 26, 2008 10:20 AM

What a remarkable man with a life well lived. My deepest sympathies to all of you during this difficult time.

God Bless,

Toni Porterfield Hartley
Message from Rev. Paul Min
February 26, 2008 9:49 AM

I still remember his smile on his face. I miss the great sense of humor and positive attitude that he has always shown to me. Since I was called as a Pastor of First Presbyterian church of California, I have met him to talk and pray together once in a while when he was healthy. He was my friend but also mentor in my ministry at the church where he had served for 29 years. I have always challenged by spiritual insight and wisdom of God in his heart. I thank God for the time I have had with The Rev. Dr. John Rankin. John, we miss you. See you there sometime in the future. May God's peace be with you; May God's comfort and healing touch be with Barbara and family members, church members and friends. Amen and Amen.
Message from Randy & Sherry Hough
February 26, 2008 9:47 AM

You may not remember us, but we will always remember Dr.Rankin from the years we attended California University (over 25 years ago.) Rev. Rankin was our community advisor for Alpha Phi Omega. He became more than an advisor to us, he also became a friend. He and Barbara welcomed us into their home and church. We will never forget his kindness and thoughtfulness. He set an example for each of us to follow as to what a true and faithful disciple of Christ should be(and he showed us we could still have a lot of fun while doing it!) Please know his life has blessed so many others.
Message from Sandra Huska
February 26, 2008 8:08 AM

My sincere sympathies to Barb and the entire Rankin Family. I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers.
Message from Dawn Nartic
February 26, 2008 7:45 AM

I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of Rev. Rankin. He was a wonderful man who was always willing and able to give a helping hand. He will be missed.
Message from Eleanor Berczik
February 26, 2008 7:07 AM

John wasn't just my favorite minister-he was a friend. I remember when he came to the Daisytown Church as guest speaker and moderator of the Session following Alexander Silay's accident and retirement. He had almost as much fun as we did in guiding our little congregation to finding a new pastor. I personally considered him one of the most intelligent AND diplomatic of ministers- one who was not afraid to speak his mind nor to keep it open to anything that might be new and/or better. To his family-God bless you and keep you in your grief, but remember John and his great booming laugh and know he is home at last.
Message from David E. Green
February 26, 2008 6:50 AM

I was a member of the Mount Prospect Church in Hickory. Reverend Rankin officiated my joining the church as well as other ministries. He will be sadly missed especially by my mother Mrs. Bette Green.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
David (Rick) Green
Message from Janice & Jason Novak
February 25, 2008 6:10 PM

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