Walter Rankin

HERRIN -- Walter R. Rankin, 76, died Monday, July 9, 2012, at Kindred Hospital in Tampa, Fla.

Walter was born Jan. 22, 1936, in Maringouin, La., to Carl W. and Lena (Zwick) Rankin.

Walter is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Brenda and John Brewster of Herrin, and their children, Travis and Patrick; stepson, Randy Sellars of Marion, and his daughters, Casey Slavin, Torrie Sellars and Danny Sellars; brother, John W. Rankin, and his children, Karla Rankin and Kevin Rankin; sisters, Louise Molla of Bethalto, and her children, Christine Shadewalt, Mary Baker and Matthew Molla; Lanora Yohe of Neavitt, Md., and her children, Rhonda Parrott and Cindy Bagley; and Cathy Collins of Herrin, and her husband, Dennis Collins, and their children, Brian and Valerie.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law, Joe Molla and Wayne Yohe; and sister-in-law, Juanita (Gulley) Rankin.

Walter was employed by Norge (Maytag) and General Dynamics, retiring in 1994 from Johnson Control in Cadiz, Ky. Walter loved his many years in tool and die engineering. After retirement, he lived in Sebring, Fla., fishing with many of his friends but most of all, his fishing buddy, William (Bill) Barton. He was an avid reader, enjoying westerns and suspense thrillers. He was a kind, gentle man who will be missed by family and friends.

His wish for cremation and only family services will be honored.

Memorials may be made to American Heart Association.