Robert L. Rankin

Uncle Bob that what it was to me. I away love visiting my aunt and him in KS where every they live. From being young kid to my teens in that country house loved that shone house. I was always asking him about that Indians stuff as a young lad "tell me more please ". I hope I give him as much joy he give me as kid. One of favorite uncle I had. I was always proud of him . Great memories all the time. We will miss you.

The KU Linguistics Department is saddened by the loss of Professor Rankin, a long-time contributor and authority in Siouan and other Native American languages. Bob remained a valuable colleague until well after his retirement in 2005. Our heartfelt condolences.

Leavenworth County Office of Emergency Management was deeply saddened by the news of Bob's passing. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.

Thank you for all that you have done for the people, (Kansa/Konza/Kaw)

Bob and I were first cousins he being the older son of Helen Engel Rankin, my father Louis Engel's older sister. I remember well my visits to Tifton GA with my parents and my two brothers in the early 1950s and Bob's fascination with ham radios. Bob was the oldest of five cousins, all boys, and he led the way with sterling academic accomplishments and a successful and, with the work he did with Native Americans, pioneering career in linguistics. I always admired Bob, and, not having taught...

Carolyn: Sue and I were very surprised and saddened to read of Bob's death. Although we knew of his illnesses we didn't realize how serious they were. Bob certainly had an interesting career and research interests. We didn't know you had lived in Romania for two years. That must have been an experience to remember. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Dick and Sue

Dr. Rankin was a friend of my brother, Curtis Kekahbah. Through the years Curtis would tell me of the contribution of Dr. Rankin to Curtis' understanding and speaking of the Konza language. Curtis referred to this contribution as being the foundation of the tribe's present Konza language revitalization program. It goes without saying that Dr. Rankin's zeal and appreciation has been transferred to the Konza in their revitalization efforts.

Carolyn, I am sorry for your loss
Barbara Retke

I have always admired Prof. Rankin--from when I was a student in linguistics to my return to teaching at KU. He was extremely knowledgeable and kind, never hesitating to share his grasp of difficult concepts with students. I admired his knowledge of languages and his steady contributions to indigenous languages. May he rest in peace. My sincere condolences to Caroline and my apologies for not being able to attend the Memorial Gathering.