James Rankin Jr.

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Norwich Free Academy University of Connecticut

James Rankin Obituary

Norwich - James H. Rankin Jr., 46, of Rose Garden Lane, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday at the Haven Healthcare Center in Norwich.

He was born in Norwich on Dec. 30, 1959, son of James H. Rankin of Springfield, Pa., and Salem, and Carolyn (Redhead) Rankin of Norwich. James was a graduate of Norwich Free Academy, class of 1977 and the University of Connecticut, class of 1981. Mr. Rankin worked as a chemical engineer at various companies.

James enjoyed hiking, biking and being outdoors.

He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Herbert Rankin, who died Nov. 23, 1992 and his maternal grandmother, Louise Redhead, who died Nov. 15, 1996.

In addition to his parents, James is survived by his paternal grandmother, Anna (Gualtieri) Rankin, of Norwich; two sisters, Theresa Rankin-Carle and her husband, John Carle, of Norwich and Elizabeth Rankin, of Norwich; three nephews, Remy, Jason and Simon; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

A 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday at Sacred Heart Church in Norwichtown. Burial will follow in Maplewood Cemetery in Norwich. There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Backus Hospital Foundation, 326 Washington Street, Norwich, CT 06360.

The Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home, 82 Cliff Street, Norwich, has been entrusted with James' arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Day on May 31, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for James Rankin

7 Entries

Terry Rankin-Carle

June 20, 2006

To My Brother,

I have many things to thank you for. Having an older brother has certainly enriched my life. Your quotable quotes, such as “Why come I can’t say how come” and “Never mind what bike” amongst others have provided us with countless episodes of laughter.

I have to thank you for teaching me many things including how to pick locks, work on my car, and how to ride a motorcycle. The many things that I learned from you have come in handy through the years, helped me in a jam, and kept me out of trouble. I have also been able to lend a hand to others along the way, because of the things I learned from you.

You were always willing to help out, no matter what the job. Climbing tall ladders, crawling into tight spots, or digging deep trenches, our mantra was “let’s get Jamie”, and of course you were on board to help.

I was lucky to have an older brother looking out for me. One example was when you warned me not to buy tickets to the NFA pool in my freshman year. Your guidance was always welcomed, and appreciated, and in this case saved me some cash (seeing as I do like to swim).

I will always remember how you took care of the garden, even in your youth. How you tended the tomatoes, and prepared them for sale. Twenty- five cents a pound was a bargain even back then. How we ate tomato sandwiches again and again, and never tired of them, so ripe and delicious.

Your life has enriched mine, and your spirit lives on in the knowledge, and experiences of those of us your life has touched. I hope to pass on to my sons, some of the same things that I learned from you, practical things, as well as your love of nature and peace.

Love, your sister, Terry

I would also like to say thank you to the many kind persons, friends, caregivers and volunteers that our family encountered along the way. Please know that your support, kind words and actions were noticed and appreciated.

And to Jamie’s friends, please know that, if at any time you would like to share a story or a photo (I have many), you are always welcome in my home. I know that my brother was very selective in his choice of friends, and I know that you are truly treasures.

Pat Poirier

June 12, 2006

To The Rankin Family

May memories of Jamie comfort you and even bring laughter of happier times. He is truly at peace now.

With Caring Thoughts & Sincerest Sympathy

Bill Doran

June 2, 2006

Hey Jim,

Since our senior year together at NFA, you were one of my closest friends. Over the last thirty years, we hiked thousands of miles through thousands of trails. No matter what, I could always depend on you for a long walk, and a long talk. Your helping hands hung from broad shoulders.

Now fate has forced me to bid you this final farewell. Although you left this world too soon, I'm grateful for the time I knew you. I shall miss you dearly, Jim. The forest will never be the same without you.

Thank you, Jim Rankin, for being my friend. Goodbye...

--------------------------------

Paula Paolino

June 1, 2006

The last few years were a terrible challenge to Jamie, and we wish that he is now at peace and without pain. All the memories of the years gone by will always keep him aline in our hearts & minds.

With deepest Sympathy and Love

Paula, Carmine, Rebecca and Dants

Liz Rankin

May 31, 2006

Dear Jamie,

As Kahlil Gibran wrote, "Life and death are one even as the river and the sea are one." As I continue on my journey, I know you will always be by my side. I miss you, dearly.

Love, Your sister

Jocelyn Williams

May 31, 2006

I want to express my condolensces to the Rankin Fsmily. Stay strong for your loved one is in a better place and is no longer suffering. You will be in my prayers during this time of grief.

Sonya Mis

May 31, 2006

With deepest sympathies

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