Paul Ranke

Paul Ranke passed away peacefully at his home in Waterford, Michigan, on March 9, 2026.

Paul was born on July 18, 1955, in Utrecht, Holland, to Reuben Rudolph Ranke Jr. and Rhoda Jeannette Ranke (Basner). He was the eldest of the Ranke siblings and the only boy, making him both his mother's pride and joy and the endlessly loved-and occasionally annoyed-big brother to his four sisters.

Paul was raised in Oscoda, Michigan, where he attended Oscoda Area Schools. During his school years he stayed busy with a variety of activities, including football, golf, track, wrestling, and even debate team-likely the one extracurricular pursuit that followed him well into adulthood.

He graduated from Oscoda Area High School in 1973 and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1975, proudly following in his father's footsteps in military service. Paul devoted the next 21 years to what he often described as his favorite career, retiring in 1996 with the rank of Senior Chief. The stories he shared from his years in the Navy-though often the "tamer" versions-were filled with adventure, travel, and camaraderie. Talking about the places he had been and the experiences he had always brought a smile, and a smirk to his face.

During his Navy career, Paul served aboard the USS Higbee (DD-806), USS Cushing (DD-985), and USS Supply (AOE-6).

Paul's pride in his Navy service carried into his second career in Information Technology. At the time of his passing, he was in his 26th year working in IT for Trinity Health, a field he developed a passion for during his years in the Navy.

Paul was never married and had no children-or at least none that he claimed to know about, as he liked to joke. He lived life on his own terms and did what he wanted, when he wanted. Paul was rarely bored and filled his time with many adventures and hobbies over the years. He enjoyed running, biking, collecting and tasting beer, attending Renaissance Festivals, and when he wasn't out doing those things, you could often find him at his computer gaming. He was an avid computer gamer and was especially proud of his time playing World of Warcraft where he spent countless hours gaming with longtime friends and family. His love of gaming was shared with his family and he often had many different servers, running many different games so they could share the time together.

Paul is survived by his mother, Rhoda Ranke (Basner); his sisters, Joyce Ranke, Audrey (Ron Eitel), and Julie (Troy Lecuyer). His nieces and nephews were a great source of pride and joy in his life, and he loved following their lives and accomplishments. They include Amanda Ranke, Alisha (Justin Tarrance), Nicole (Andrew Bolthouse), Danielle (Craig Buno), Eddie Eisenhauer (Melissa), Kevin Ranke (Alexis), and Charles Lecuyer (Autumn). He is also survived by many great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as one great-great-nephew.

He also leaves behind close friends Craig Weaver, Todd Parker, and his running partner Joanne Gondert, along with many others who reached out and were part of his full and adventurous life.

Paul was preceded in death by his father, Reuben R. Ranke Jr.; his sister, Luann Ali (Ranke); his brother-in-law, Edmond Eisenhauer; his nephew, Edmond Paul Ranke; and his great-nephew, Trey Eisenhauer.

Paul lived life his way, and those who knew him will remember his stories, humor, and independent spirit. In accordance with Paul's wishes, he will be cremated. The family will hold a celebration of life at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be sent to the Navy League Foundation. Navy League of the United States