Clifford D. Rankin

Clifford D. Rankin, age 77, of Elkhart, Kansas died Wednesday, February 17, 2016 at Morton County Hospital in Elkhart, Kansas. He was born April 2, 1938 in Garden City, Kansas the son of Charley McKinley and Almira Francis (Briley) Rankin.

Clifford was a lifelong resident of Elkhart, moving here when he was a young boy. He worked in the oilfield for over 40 years and retired as a contract pumper. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army. Clifford married Christine Jones on December 30, 1960 in Raton, New Mexico. He was proud of his 38 years of sobriety, following the 12-step program and supporting others. Clifford enjoyed building remote control airplanes, wood carving, antique cars and participating in car shows. He was a member of the Springfield, Colorado Car Club, and Point Rock Riders of Elkhart. 

Survivors include his wife, Christine of their home; son Troy Dwight Rankin and wife Melinda of Elkhart, Kansas; daughter, Traci Dee Bitner and husband Larry of Elkhart, Kansas; bonus children, Ryan Scott and wife Erin of Elkhart, Kansas, Samantha Sanger and husband Corey of Kalvesta, Kansas; brother, Milford Rankin and wife Joy of Wilburton, Kansas; and three grandchildren, Taylor Rankin and wife Cherokee, Noah Bitner, and M’Lynn Swartz and husband Shane. 

Clifford is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, LeRoy Schnurr and Edmond Dean Rankin; sisters, Claradean Perry and Wilma Rankin.

Graveside service will be held Saturday, February 20, 2016 at 2:00 PM at the Elkhart Cemetery in Elkhart, Kansas. Friends may call Friday, February 19, 2016 from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Garnand Funeral Home in Elkhart, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be given to the donor’s choice in care of Garnand Funeral Home, PO Box 854, Elkhart, KS 67950.