Charles "Chuck" Rankin, 76, of Dupree, SD passed away at Avera Hospital in Pierre, SD on Sunday, March 3, 2024.  Graveside services with Full Military Honors will be Thursday, March 7, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. MT at the Dupree Cemetery in Dupree, SD.  Pastor Pauline Webb will officiate.

Charles Hardy "Chuck" Rankin was born on January 5, 1948 to Clarence and Lydia (Thrower) Rankin in Blackwell, OK.  He was the youngest of 12 children.   At a young age the family moved to California where he graduated from Rosemead High School.  In 1966, Charles joined the US Army and was assigned to the 82nd Airborne unit and received his Parachute Badge.

After his service to his country in the Army, Chuck drove truck and worked for Tunnel Systems.  He met Linda Berndt in the summer of 1990 and moved to South Dakota.  He worked for Upper Elementary  in Eagle Butte, SD as a janitor and bus driver.  In 1995 he and Linda moved to Dupree, SD to help with Linda's mothers farm.  He worked for Dupree Lumber selling lumber and built several sheds around the county.

Chuck loved to fish and hunt.  He was so proud of the 9 pound 29 inch walleye he caught at Whitlock Bay.  He also caught several salmon there.

Chuck will be greatly missed by all, especially great granddaughter Tinsley, who spent a lot of time with her Papa.

He is survived by the love of his life, Linda Berndt, son Chuck Jr., daughter Krista McCown, step son Will Anders (Christine Womack) five grandchildren, Lacy Aravell, Baylie Rankin, Carter Rankin, Bailey Anders, Riggin Anders, three great granddaughters, Tinsley, Elleigh and Malanee.  Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, six sisters and five brothers.