REPUBLIC, MI – Donald R. Rankinen, age 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at UP Health System - Marquette, while surrounded by the love and care of his family.

Donald was born on October 27, 1937, in Ishpeming, the son of Clarence and Helmi (Olander) Rankinen. He was raised in Republic and graduated from Republic High School with the Class of 1956, where he played basketball and was a good friend to many.

Following graduation, Don went right to work, spending time in the woods cutting trees and working hard in the outdoors, which he loved. He later dedicated 27 years to the Marquette County Road Commission before retiring in November of 1997.

While growing up in Republic, Don met the love of his life, Marcella Tuomi. The two shared many memories through bowling leagues and local activities. They were united in marriage on April 9, 1966, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic and recently celebrated 60 wonderful years together.

Don was a familiar and friendly face throughout the community. He loved bowling, first in the old Republic bowling alley and later in the Ishpeming bowling leagues. He also enjoyed horseshoes, going for walks, cribbage games with family and friends, and trips to the casino with Marcella. Don never met a stranger for long and always seemed to have a joke ready to brighten someone’s day. His sense of humor and quick wit were unforgettable to those who knew him.

A truly helpful and social man, Don was always lending a hand wherever needed. Whether helping with church highway cleanups, mowing lawns for others, fixing something for a neighbor, or simply stopping to chat, he enjoyed helping others and making people laugh along the way. He especially loved spending time with his family, whether playing cribbage and board games with his daughter, Diane, or sharing his passion for dogs with his daughter, Sandy. Don also enjoyed sharing stories over coffee with his friends at The Summerplace, making sure to stop in each morning while he was on his morning walks.

Don had a special love for dogs. His own beloved companions, Buttons and Abby, held a treasured place in his heart, and even neighborhood dogs seemed to know they had found a friend whenever Don was around.

Together, Don and Marcella built a life filled with countless hours of gardening side by side, creating beautiful flower gardens, tending to projects around the home, and feeding the birds they both enjoyed watching.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Marcella Rankinen; daughters, Diane (Steve) Anderson and Sandra (Mike) Doud; grandchildren, Brandi (Adam) Maxon, Megan Anderson, Michael Doud Jr., and Corey Doud; great-grandchildren, Maverick and Blaze Maxon; sister, Laverne Antilla; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Helmi Rankinen; his sister, Cynthia Rankinen; and several beloved brother in-laws and sister in-laws and his cherished canine pals, Buttons and Abby.

Don’s family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of UP Health System - Marquette, especially Dr. Joseph Steele, for the compassionate care provided during Don’s final weeks. They also extend a special thank you to the caring staffs of Brookridge Heights and UP Home Health and Hospice for their kindness and support.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday June 4, 2026, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic. Don’s family will greet friends and relatives from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. Pastor Alex Ross will officiate. Immediately following the memorial service, a luncheon will be held in the Bethany Lutheran Church Hall. Internment will take place in the Republic Cemetery at a later date.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.