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Donald Craig Rankin, age 80, died peacefully at home on Aug. 28 after a long illness. He was born in Mineola, New York on Aug. 13, 1940, to Marjorie and John Rankin. He is survived by his wife Nancy. He leaves his children Craig and Laura Rankin of Seattle, Washington, Elizabeth Rankin of Guilford, and John and Karen Rankin of Madison; and six beloved grandchildren.

After graduating from Colgate University, he was fast tracked in school because of his mathematic acumen, and graduated from the University of Rochester Medical School. He was a chemist who did research on the DNA molecule, and a physicist with experience in immunology. He was an Air Force surgeon during the Vietnam War, and then Head of Emergency Medicine at Park City Hospital in Bridgeport. As chief of Emergency Medical Services Planning, he was a pioneer in developing protocol for emergency medical technicians and paramedics.

His background in science led to a greater interest in the study of nature including archeology, geology, and history. In addition to environmental causes, Don delivered talks as a champion of social justice and cultural and racial diversity. These talks were about his ancestor John Rankin, of Ripley, Ohio, a Presbyterian minister and abolitionist who was one of the most active conductors of the Underground Railroad, helping more than 2,000 enslaved people find their way to freedom. Don admired Daniel Hand and he wrote, "A man of industry, integrity and moral courage, Daniel Hand is a role model for us all." Don always gave to his community and was himself a role model.

Don was passionate about raising money for the Meigs Point Nature Center. Over a two-decade period, he spent many weeks selling plants, Christmas trees, and chrysanthemums at the Hammonasset State Park. Don had a love of all things Native American. With Dale Carson, he created the Hammonasset Festival.

Thanks to the Guilford House, the VNA Community Healthcare and Hospice, and to Skip Deeley, a dear friend. In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to the Friends of Hammonasset or the American Legion, Post 79. A celebration of Don's life will be in the fall of 2021.