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JACK RANKIN Obituary
Jack Rankin of Lake City, FL, died peacefully at Haven Hospice on May 17, 2011. He was born June 2, 1939, in McKeesport, PA, the son of Emerson (Red) and Helen K. Rankin. He moved to St. Petersburg, FL in 1956 and graduated from Northeast High School the following year. He graduated from the University of South Florida in the first graduation class. He received his Masters of Education degree from the University of Florida in 1969. He moved to Lake City in 1970 and became the Assistant Principal of Columbia High School where he worked for 24 and 1/2 years. He completed his retirement after 9 and 1/2 years as Principal of Melrose Park Elementary. After his retirement from the Columbia County School System, Jack became a realtor with Hallmark Real Estate until health required him to resign. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Lake City. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Barbara Rankin Draeger.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Ginney, a son Bill (Deedee), of Brandywine, MD, two granddaughters, Brittany and Amanda, and one grandson, Justin (Shawna) and three great-grandchildren, two cousins, two nieces and numerous other relatives. He is also survived by a special family, Debra and Chuck Robarts of Lake City and their children, Daniel (Angie), Bryan, Brittany, Charlie, and Daniel's daughter, Callie. He also leaves behind his beloved cat, Tabasco.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. GUERRY FUNERAL HOME, Lake City, Florida is in charge of arrangements.
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Memories and Condolences
for JACK RANKIN
Karen Belcher
May 26, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Heidi Ratliff-Walker
May 25, 2011
I am very sorry to hear of Mr. Rankin's passing. He was the first Principal I had as a teacher Mr. Rankin was someone who always provided support and encouragement to teachers and students. The Rankin family will be in my prayers. It is always a sad day for the World when such a wonderful man passes. He will be greatly missed.
James Buchanan
May 23, 2011
I was truely saddened by Jack's passing! I will always remember his smile and sense of humor for all! May God Bless,"Buck" Buchanan
Faye Clark
May 21, 2011
I am deeply sorry to learn of Jack's passing and offer my condolences to Mrs. Rankin and their children and grandchildren. I worked with Jack at Hallmark briefly and found him to be a very special person. He will certainly be missed. Sincerely, Faye Clark
May 20, 2011
Thinking of you with fond memories of happy times in the big swing under the big oak tree. Marge Sevcik
Donna (Farr -Hohmann) Lubbers
May 20, 2011
I was blessed to call Mr. Rankin one of my principals while a student at CHS and also my principal while a young teacher at Melrose Elementary. While a teacher at Melrose he was a true mentor and friend. He showed the utmost compassion and support when my oldest daughter was born at a pound. I know I am a better school counselor and person today because his life blessed mine. On a happy note I found out I followed in his tracks by being a graduate of both USF and UF. May God bless his family and friends with peace and strength. Thanks, Mr. Rankin for being a strong leader and my friend.
May 20, 2011
Mr. Rankin was the most wonderful person I have ever worked with. Both my children, Alayna and Michael have the best memories of him. He was always a good sport as we at Melrose put him through some crazy things for the children and he was always willing. From kissing a pig to wearing pantyhose. God speed Mr. Rankin your sweet spirit and the love you showed to me and my family will always be cherished. Prayers and thoughts to the family. Tressa Myers and family
Robert Bowen
May 19, 2011
I remember Mr.Rankin,from my years at CHS.He was a fair and gentle man,He always had a smile for the students under his care.Mr.Rankin considered eachand every student one of his kids,he also had a sympathetic ear for anyone who was troubled.I will carry a special place in my heart for him.May God Bless and keep his family in their time of sorrow.
Pace Getzen
May 19, 2011
Great Guy!! When working for, around or with him, one could always get a straight answer. He led by example!! Though very few years sparate us, Jack was one or my many mentors!! Ginney, Bill, I share your sadness. Your family is in our Prayers.
Vickie Jones
May 19, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mr. & Mrs. Jessie Jones
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