Christopher Paul Rankin

Christopher was born on August 29, 1948 in Los Angeles, California to Rev. Earl George and Ruth Elizabeth Rankin. Much of his childhood was spent in Ojai, California, which he described as “a perfect place for a boy to grow up”. Sister Kathleen Jane joined the family in 1954. The family moved to Oregon in 1960 and lived in Brookings before settling in McMinnville. Chris was a proud Grizzly and graduated from McMinnville High School in 1966 before becoming a Linfield College Wildcat and graduating in 1971. Chris, now a teacher taught at several Oregon high schools before retiring from Willamina High School. He returned to teach at Salem Academy until finally retiring for good.

Chris and Kathy Reid were married in 1990 and he proudly helped her raise children Daniel, Kristine, and Brad. They divorced in 2000. Chris and Christine met and were married on December 16th, 2000 and he gained five more children. Together, Chris and Christine also fostered over 50 youth before Chris passed away. Chris and Christine would have celebrated their 20th anniversary in December.

Christopher had a passion for music and sports. From an early age, he loved to sing and was a member of the choir and Twilighters at MHS. He played football and was forever reminiscing with anyone who would listen, about their successful seasons. At Linfield he played for Coach Ad Rutschman’s Wildcats and became part of the “streak”, the longest run of consecutive winning football seasons at any level of college football, which continues to this day. He also coached other sports including track, and girls’ basketball. He ended his coaching career at Salem Academy.

Chris was preceded in death by his father Earl and mother Ruth. He is survived by his sister Kathy and by his wife Christine, children Jeremy (Stacy) Agee, Melissa (Brad) Weathermon, Bethany (Brandon) Chandler, Ian Agee, Daniel and Brad Reid, and Kristine Neese.

Chris was an extremely proud grandpa to grandchildren Kelsi Honeyman, Alexis and Jacob Lichty, Violet Agee, and Karlie and Rowan Chandler.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 11th at 11:00 AM. Seating will be limited by COVID-19 restrictions. If you are interested in attending, please contact Christine at [email protected] for details.