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“Do what your best at…make it your life’s work” these words of wisdom were heard by many who crossed paths with John F. Rankin. A man of many “bests”, he put these words into action, for his life was full of passion, purpose, and talent.
Born to Mildred & John in Detroit, Michigan, he learned to play many instruments as a boy and ultimately the bass, his passion.
John’s professional musical career spanned 60+ years, rubbing shoulders with artists like Ike & Tina Turner, Jimmy Hendrix, Elvin Bishop and others. As a young adult, he laid down funky soulful bass grooves, along with sultry vocals … touring in every state, with headliners and locals alike…playing bass was always on the table. In later years, he was known as “Papa John” in “The Diamonds of Alaska” a band that funkified Alaska for decades with longtime members Kenny Blackwell, Rick Nunes and the late Harry Ross and Jerry Bostwick.
John’s strong construction background laid the foundation for his 40+ year career in residential design, known as John Rankin Designs, which included residential/commercial projects in CA, AZ, UT, ND, WA, MO, and Alaska. With much purpose, he really strived to provide exceptional service, while creating beautiful custom homes & remodels for builders and clients alike. His designs grace the hillsides and coastlines of Alaska, namely in Girdwood, Anchorage, Eagle River & the Mat-Su Valley, all in a place he called home for 38+ years, collaborating with builders Bill Bousquet, Mike Quinn Construction, MX & B Development, The Peterson Group, Spinelli Homes, Sam Hill, Wally Bosserman & others. Chamberlain Architects in Missouri.
His other artistic talents also included Hollywood movie sets like “The People under the stairs” & others, commissioned art, wood carved signs (Alaska subdivisions and businesses) and paintings like the “Hawk” mural at Hanshew Middle School.
John loved Alaska, being with the family, visiting friends & fremily (Bunny & Jerry), playing music with fellow musicians, playing cards & dancing in the kitchen with Suzi, teaching piano & painting to his grandchildren, walking “Sadie” in the park and constructing squirrel nesting boxes with his wife (per her request).
He adored his family & they adored him … A loving husband and soulmate to Susan and an amazing dad to his daughter Amanda and to Charise, Selena, and Trey & PaPa to three grandchildren. He was the Best, his kind & forgiving heart, words of encouragement, humor, generosity, and unconditional love were always felt, by those closest to him. He was also a great friend and mentor to many along life’s path, always lending an ear, a helping hand, a good laugh, or valuable advice.
He is greatly missed by his wife, Susan, daughter Amanda (Bryan M.) Rankin and Susan’s children, Charise (Quinn) H., Selena J., Trey J. & three grandchildren. As well as siblings Laurie N., Nancy (Larry) H., & Mike (Mary) R. & cousins Ruth H., Lorraine (David) R., Susan (John) P., Rick (Nancy) R., Debra H., Leslie (Fred S.) V. & Rosalinda (Peadar D.) C., friends, colleagues, clients & musicians. Predeceased are his parents John & Mildred.
John was embraced by his wife and the children, when he was called to meet, the Lord God Almighty on Sunday November 20, 2022, after being hospitalized with pneumonia in Springfield, Mo. We miss him dearly and love him always, He is a treasure & forever in our hearts. Until we meet again, we miss him, more than words can say.
A private gathering was held in “Sadie’s Park” at the gazebo in the Redbud Garden.
The Final tour ‘Spirit in the sky celebration” will be in ALASKA, date TBA.
In remembrance, please support independent musicians striving to take it higher, please donate to the Alaska Independent Music Initiative AKIMI or Detroit Music Awards
Photo: Music Man Photography 2019
Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 1, 2023.
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