It’s with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gary Rankin. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Kathy; son, Terry (Mary); grandchildren, Kayleigh and Brayden; daughter, Jennifer (Silas); his furry workshop buddy, Jasper; brothers, Don (Gail) Thomas and Dan (Cori) Thomas. Gary was predeceased by his mom, Ruth, his dad, Ken and his brothers Len Thomas and Bob Thomas.
After retirement from the Navy, his love for the ocean and travelling continued, going on cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean, vacations to Hawaii and road trips throughout B.C. Parksville Beach was a favorite spot for a weekend getaway.
He enjoyed many years volunteering at BC Aviation Museum rebuilding old airplanes and spending countless hours in his workshop and garden. On weekends he loved attending the grandkids’ many sports and dance events. He especially enjoyed the Friday Heart and Stroke group and his Hillside Mall coffee friends.
He will be deeply missed!
In lieu of flowers, if desired, a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
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Joanne Rankin
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Paul Rankin Dear Kathy and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. I feel that it took me 70 years to find him; we really enjoyed the short time we spent with you both!
Love
Paul & Barb
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Ray White Dear Mrs. Rankin and Family,
Alan Witcombe and myself (Ray White) have known Gary through our association with the British Columbia Aviation Museum for many years, where we worked as volunteers. We had many laughs with Gary over the years and although we have not seen Gary for quite a while, we know that he will be sorely missed by not only us but by many others at the Museum.
Please accept our sadness for your loss and our very sincere condolences.
Ray White and Alan Witcombe.
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Doug Rollins, Librarian, BC Aviation Museum Kathy – I was very sorry to hear about Gary. I worked with him at the BC Aviation Museum for more than 10 years. He was an avid reader who often signed out books from the library, and we would talk about them afterwards.
Gary was also a skilled restorer, whose fine work is embodied in may of the display aircraft that will be seen and appreciated for generations to come. He is missed.
Doug Rollins, Librarian, BC Aviation Museum
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Janice McAdam Dear Kathy,
I was so sorry to hear about Gary’s passing and just wanted to pass along my deepest sympathy to you and your fmily at this time.
Jan McAdam
(Starbuck’s Coffee Group)
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Ron & Marilyn Walker & Family Dear Kathy and Family:
So sorry to hear the news of Gary’s passing.
Thinking of you all at this sad time.
We will miss seeing and talking to him, too!
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Susan Taylor Dear Kathy. I am so very sorry for your loss of your husband Gary and send my heartfelt condolences. Sandy and Heather Crisp walked up our street while I was out in the garden the other day and let me know the sad news. You are in my thoughts at this terribly difficult time for you. Much love, Susan Taylor
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Debbie Talbot Dear Kathy, I am sorry to read about Gary. My deepest condolences go out to you and the whole family at this sad time. My thoughts are with you.
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Joan Johnson May our thoughts and prayers comfort you at this difficult time.
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Beth Futcher Kathy we were so sorry to hear of Garys passing. At this difficult time I know we can not get together but please know you and the family are thought of. We have still in self isolation on coming home and will continue limiting our outings, but look forward to having a visit later in this summer.
Ian has been in touch with Donald and let me know today.
Take care Beth
Dear Kathy and family,
I was so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. I am so grateful that we got together last year. I am thinking of you, and my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Love
Joanne