Roger F. Rankin

Roger Farnham Rankin passed away unexpectedly on August 25, 2025, at the age of 72. A lifelong Clevelander, Roger was known for his warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 36 years, Alison Albert Rankin, and their two daughters, Anne Farnham Rankin and Elisabeth Marshall Rankin. He was a devoted son-in-law to Alison’s parents, Margaret and Ed Albert, and also is survived by his brothers Alfred M. Rankin, Jr. (Viki), Thomas T. Rankin (Corbin), Claiborne R. Rankin (Beth), and Bruce T. Rankin. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred M. Rankin and Clara T. Rankin.

Roger and Alison’s love story began with a phone call—she was a bond trader in New York, and he a trust officer focused on fixed income securities at Cleveland Trust Company (now KeyBank). That call sparked a lifelong partnership built on laughter, mutual respect, and deep affection. Together they were a true team, raising their daughters with love and joy.

Roger attended Hawken School from kindergarten through twelfth grade and went on to graduate from the University of Denver. He had a keen financial mind and became a private investor in a variety of businesses, always leveraging his insight and integrity.

Roger was a committed steward of institutions within the Cleveland community. Since its founding in 1993, he served on the Board of Directors and as Treasurer of Hopewell, Ohio’s only therapeutic farm community for adults with mental illness—a cause close to his heart. Roger was a longstanding Director of The Cleveland Zoological Society, the Chagrin Valley Hunt Club and Hawken School. He also served as a Director on various corporate boards including NACCO Industries and Hamilton Beach Brands.

Roger’s love of the out of doors began in childhood with days spent exploring the woods, orchards and river at Sycamore Farm. His love of the natural world continued throughout his life, in particular spending time in the Sonoran desert, the great Redwood Forests, America’s national parks, Harbour Island and beyond. His reverence for nature was ever present in his daily life in Gates Mills. All of these interests together informed his future hopes and dreams.

Roger had a passion for classic cars and enjoyed collecting over the years, a love which he passed on to his wife and children. Roger’s broad intellectual interests and knowledge enabled him to engage on a meaningful level with anyone. He was known for the twinkle in his eye, his warm personality, quick wit, a talent for good-natured teasing, a genuine interest in others, and deep personal friendships. His laughter was infectious, and his presence brought light to every room. Roger’s loyalty was boundless.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Roger’s memory to consider a donation to Hopewell, whose mission he supported with dedication and care.

A memorial service will be held at St. Christopher by-the-River Church on Friday, October 3rd at 11:00 am.