Davis Kennison Rankin

Father of Benjamin Joseph, Rebecca Jane, Ida Belle, John Davis, James W., Charles Thomas, Effie, Omega Samuel, George Edward, Maggie and Drusilla.

Russell KS Record, Saturday, June 30, 1900:

Death of D. K. Rankin

David (sic) K. Rankin, an old and highly respected citizen, died at his residence near Dorrance, June 22, and was buried in the Brethren cemetery, near Dorrance, June 23; Rev. Stoner conducted the funeral services.

Mr. Rankin was born in Augusta county, Va., October 28, 1832. Married, September 25, to Miss Drusilla Crumpacker. He owned, in partnership with his brother, Joseph, the Augusta Woolen Mills and farm on South River, Va., and caried on the mills and farm until March, 1879, when he sold his interests therein to his brother and moved with his family to Dorrance, Russell county, Kan., where he purchased and improved a farm upon which he resided until his death. He leaves a wife and eight children---5 sons and 3 daughters---to mourn the loss of a kind, loving husband and father. Four children preceded him to the other world.

Mr. Rankin was hurt while repairing a fence on his farm, in March, 1899, and continued to grow worse. He went to Virginia in June, 1899, thinking it might help him, but came back home in about a month not feeling any better. In September he went to Gueda Springs, Kan., but returned home again in a short time feeling no better. After doctoring with different physicians at home he went to the University hospital in Kansas City, about March 20, 1900, and was treated there about eight weeks without deriving any apparent benefit. He returned home about May 23, and was obliged to almost continually keep his bed until relieved by death.

During several months before his death he suffered intense pain. He told the writer that while in the hospital in Kansas City he gave his heart to God and received the blessed assurance that his sins were all forgiven, and added that he was ready to die with the blessed assurance that he would go to heaven.

As a citizen Mr. Rankin had always been an upright, peaceful man; was successful as a farmer and left a large, well-improved farm. He left many who will miss him as a friend and neighbor. His age was 67 years 7 mo. 24 days.