Theodore Rankin

Theodore Rankin, 51, LaGrange, former Rockford resident, died at 5:00 a.m.Thursday, August 13, 2009 in LaGrange Memorial Hospital following a long illness. Born September 14, 1957 in Chicago, son of Robert C. and Norma Prodie Rankin.  Graduated from Boylan High School in 1975 and received a bachelors degree in Corporate Recreation from Rockford College in 1979.  He had last been employed by R.H. Donnelley  in advertising sales and formerly was in promotions for Kraft Foods.  Most recently he had been a volunteer for the fishing derby with Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington working with children with special needs.  He enjoyed golf, basketball and skiing and always loved vacation time on Lake Michigan. Survivors include his brothers, Norman (Kia) Rankin, Columbus, Ohio, Matthew (Theresa Fischer) Rankin and Joseph Rankin both of Rockford; nephew, Scott (Amanda) Stoll; niece, Caroline Rankin and great-niece, Madeline Stoll.  Predeceased by his parents and sister, Elizabeth Stoll. Visitation will be held from noon until 1:45 p.m. on Sunday, August 16, 2009  in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave.  A time of sharing and prayers will follow until 2:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Special Friends Ministry, c/o Willow Creek Community Church, Beth ODonnell, 67 E. Algonquin Rd., South Barrington, IL. 60010.  Condolences and memories can be shared at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.