Edward V. Rankin

Edward Vincent Rankin, a proud veteran of the United States Navy, passed away October 16, 2021 of natural causes. During his last days of life, he was surrounded by love and cared for by his children, grand-children, and their spouses.

Edward is survived by his wife of 61 years, Mary Jane Rankin; two daughters, Tammy (Curtis) Daniels, Nancy (Thomas) Young; along with four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

The son of Gertrude and John Rankin, Edward was born in Brighton, MI on March 12, 1942 and grew up in the small town of Saline, MI. At the young age of 17, he enlisted in the U.S.N. and proudly served his country as a Mineman for 26 years where he earned the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. The Navy took him and his family on many assignments around the world to live in places like, Hawaii, Japan, Florida, South Carolina, and Italy. At the end of his service with the United States Navy, Edward and his family settled down together in Grand Rapids, MI.

After his retirement from the United States Navy, he worked at Kentwood Finishing as a Quality Control Manager and later operated a small expediting business where he loved driving across the country. Over the years, Edward and Mary enjoyed spending time with their loved ones, camping, and visiting the Florida sun together in the winter months.

He will live in our hearts and memories forever. His love for his family and sense of humor will be dearly missed. A memorial service has been held in his honor at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kindred Hospice of Grand Rapids, MI (www.kindredhospice.com). The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.