Charles Randall (Charlie) Ranke, 68, of Rocky Mount, NC, passed away on Tuesday, February 27th 2024 in Wilson NC.
Charlie was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, where he served until their ideas of career paths diverged. He wanted to be a carpenter, and ended up becoming a skilled cabinet and furniture maker. Prior to his service, he reached Eagle Scout status with the B.S.A. while being an Air Force brat and traveling around the world. He was often thought of as a "jack of all trades". He was that guy who could build a website, fix the car, and repair anything around the house. Later in life he became a licensed Massage Therapist, describing massaging the human body " like using a hand plane on a fine piece of wood." He had a passion for music and played the guitar. Some beautiful creations came from a culmination of the things he loved. He created a cherry chair with a stained glass insert and a cigar box guitar, crafted and hand built out of a slab of cherry wood. He passed these life skills down to his children and grandchildren. He loved hiking, canoeing and kayaking with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed cooking, cold beer, hanging out with friends, a good joke, volleyball, and a round of frisbee golf.
While his father Charles "Jack" Ranke passed away several years before, he is survived by his mother Jimmie Kate, siblings: Charyl, Susan and Phillip. His ex-wife, Jane Ranke and son Stephen (Rebecca), and daughters Rebekah (Tony), Keli (Jeremy), Katie (Jeff); his grandchildren Stephanie (Jon), Kali (Lucas), Justin (Dusica), Anthony, Riley, Sadie, Charles ( aka Joey) and Jack. He liked to call him Jackson as Jack's Son was the name of his first woodworking business. As well as two great-grandsons, Waylen and Maverick.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to First Cremation Society of Louisburg.
Memories in photographs
Shared by Jack RankeShared by Joey RankeShared by CharylShared by CharylShared by Charyl
Condolences & memories
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Jack Ranke
May 22, 2024
Shared photographs
In loving memory of Charles "G-Pa" Ranke.
My name is Jack Ranke, I am another one of Charles Ranke's grandsons. Even though I didn't know him long, we connected in a way I never have with anyone since. He taught me things no other person (besides my dad, Stephen Ranke) could. He wasn't just my Grandpa, he was a teacher, someone who would teach you one thing while teaching you another. His taste in music, (along with my dad's) is what got me into one of the best instruments I've ever played, the drums. The music he'd listen to always had (and will have) a place in my heart, even if it wasn't my go-to listen all the time, I'd still enjoy it time-to-time.
Sometimes he'd come over to help my dad with something in the yard, bring me and my brother (Joey Ranke) some sweet treats, stories, and some good music. And those were some of the best days of my life. Ever.
I'm honored to have such a man like him be my grandfather, and I'm glad he's the one I got. He taught me a lot, showed me much more, and gave me some of the best memories of my life.
Rest in peace G-Pa. I love you.
(Pictured) My Drumset.
Shared by Jack Ranke
Charyl
June 30, 2024
Shared photographs
A few months before passing, my brother Charlie hugged me and said, “Thanks for being my best friend all my life.” He was my first best friend and 68 years was not nearly long enough time spent together. So many memories! Talented and creative, he encouraged and inspired me in my creative endeavors. Neither of us lacked imagination so our childhood was filled with exciting outdoor adventures. Life as Air Force brats took us all around the states and overseas and changing schools was hard, but we always had each other. I’m so thankful God brought him into my life and treasure the years I was blessed with his presence. I love you and miss you, Chuck.
Shared by CharylShared by CharylShared by Charyl
Joey Ranke
November 1, 2024
Shared photographs
In Loving Memory of Charles Ranke
My name is Joey Ranke, one of Charles Ranke’s grandsons. My grandfather and I shared a bond beyond words; he was not only my mentor but also my best friend. No matter the challenge—whether it was school, relationships, or just everyday problems—he was always there to listen and guide me.
His love for music, especially the guitar, became an inspiration for me to start playing. Now, just three months in, I already feel a connection to music that I know I owe to him. Grandpa, thank you for your endless support, your wisdom, and the love you gave so freely. I love you and will always carry your legacy in my heart.
Shared by Joey Ranke
Joey "Grandson' Ranke
September 15, 2026
This is Joey Ranke his 1st grandson, I'm re posting another memory as of 2026, It's been 2 years since he's passed, I've gotten better at guitar because of him and now I'm in a band and I make music, I really do miss him and wish I could show him my playing, He was good man and I still miss him. - Joey Ranke.
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