Dee L . Rankin, 86 of Upton, WY passed away on June 24, 2013 after a brief stay at the Weston County Hospital.
She was born on September 9, 1926 at the Dan Davis Ranch, to Herbert D Livingston and Zela Dee ( Jacobson) Livingston. As a young girl , while growing up on the family ranch, she enjoyed riding her horse to and from school. She attended Upton High School then earned her Degree in Home Economics from the University Of Wyoming , followed by a Masters Degree from Black Hills State University.
Dee was a Leader of the Soda Butte 4-H Club, a member of the Mothers Afternoon Club, Sunrise Circle, Farm Bureau, Weston County Cowbelles and United Methodist Church of Upton. She was the sewing leader for the Soda Butte 4-H Club and had the pleasure of teaching many girls the art of sewing. She was also the Wyoming Extension Agent for Weston County which allowed her to help shape the 4-H program which also included sharing informative presentations to Homemakers throughout the County.
While attending a dance in Upton, a young man named Charlie Rankin recalls an especially "Spiffy" looking , Dee Livingston. She must have thought the same of Charlie because they were married on Oct.21, 1951 and remain so to this day. To this 61 year union, five children were born and later, a Great Niece joined the family at the Rankin Ranch. While caring for her family, Dee also enjoyed cooking for brandings, shipping and working cattle. She was well known for her beautiful handcrafted quilts. Her creativity and knowledge were passed to each and every one of her children as well as all the other children she taught over the years. Dee will be remembered as a very giving, caring and honest person.
Those thankful for sharing Dee's life include her husband, Charles R Rankin of Upton, 3 daughters, Linda ( Gene Roberts), of Carlile WY, Rhonda ( Dave Pollat) of Upton, Sharon ( Doug Materi) of Upton, 2 sons, Ramon ( Faye Rankin) of Forsyth, MT, Curtis ( Mary Rankin) of Upton, Great Niece, Marie ( Clyde Krivanic) of Pine Haven, WY who became a sister in the Rankin family, 14 Grandchildren, and 23 Great Grandchildren. Dee dearly loved each and every family member. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Ellis (Buddy) Livingston and her sister, Lynn Locke.
Pallbearers were grandsons, Tony Barton, J.D Barton, Kyle Materi, 2 nephews, Darrell Locke, Doug Livingston and a family friend, Woody Gaughenbaugh.
The Service was held June 29, 2013, at the Laverne C. Boal Auditorium in Upton, WY with Sharee Johnson, Officiating. Burial and Graveside Services were held at the family ranch.
The family suggests memorials to the 4-H organization of Weston County and can be mailed to P.O. Box 2 Upton, WY 82730
Cemetery Details
Rankin Family Cemetery
256 Soda Butte Road
Upton, WY, 82730
Service
JUN 29. 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
LaVerne C. Boal Auditorium
802 Juniper Avenue
Upton, WY, US, 82730