Published on July 3, 2025 3:48 pm
Last Updated on July 3, 2025 3:48 pm
Ronald L. “Pete” Rankin, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at Shelbyville Health Care and Senior Living.
Born on August 8, 1932, in Decatur, to Loran and Margaret (McCluer) Rankin, Pete was a beacon of light and love to all who knew him. Pete’s life was one of dedication and joy. On Valentine’s Day in 1952, in Shelbyville, Pete married his beloved wife, Hazel Reynolds. Their marriage was a testament to love and partnership, spanning a remarkable 73 years filled with laughter, support, and countless cherished memories.
Pete’s legacy continues through his wife, Hazel of Shelbyville; his three sons, Jerry and Ronnie K. (Karen Endsley) both of Shelbyville and Michael of Findlay; his three grandchildren, Alicia (Jodie) Klauser of Shelbyville, Jacie Johnson of Minnesota, and Sandy (Brandon) Smith of Shelbyville, as well as his 11great-grandchildren, Landen, Lucas, Caroline, Noah Klauser, Ashlyn, Andria, Avery Johnson, Paige Endsley and Brody, Tori, Mya Smith. His sister, Martha Vits of Champaign, and brother, John (Marie) Rankin of Missouri, along with many nieces and nephews, also survive him.
Pete was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Dick Rankin, and sister-in-law LaQuita Rankin. Pete’s professional life was marked by his role as Director of Environmental Service at Shelbyville Memorial Hospital, where he served with dedication for many years. His commitment to the community extended into his part-time work at Lockart-Green Funeral Home for nearly a decade where his warmth and compassion touched many during their times of need. A man of faith and fellowship, Pete was a longtime member of the Shelbyville Church of Christ on South
2nd Street in Shelbyville. He also found camaraderie and enjoyment as a member of the Shelbyville Horseshoe Club. His passion for sports was evident in his unwavering support for the St. Louis Cardinals, a team he followed with enthusiasm throughout his life. Pete’s love for baseball went beyond that of a spectator; he had a profound impact on the youth of Shelbyville as a little league baseball coach. His guidance and mentorship led two of his teams to back-to-back undefeated seasons, a feat that echoed his talent for leadership and his belief in the potential of every player.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Lockart-Green Funeral Home with Greg Reynolds officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Glenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shelbyville Church of Christ and may be mailed to Lockart-Green Funeral Home, 302 W Main St., Shelbyville, IL 62565. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com