Rankin Carl Ahlm

Rankin Carl Ahlm

Age 86

Passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, October 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Rankin was born to Bernard Ahlm and Dorothea (Peterson) Ahlm in Moose Lake, MN on May 7, 1939. He graduated from Grand Rapids High School in 1957 and attended Itasca Community College studying Forestry. Rankin was actively involved in the Boy Scouts of America and attained the rank of Eagle Scout on March 11, 1958. He was a charter member of the Itasca County Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Minnesota Pupil Transportation Association. Rankin married the love of his life, Jeanne Berthiaume, on August 3rd, 1962, and together they had three children, Rankin Jr. (Randy) Ann Marie Lusk, and Kelly Jeanne. Sadly, Kelly Jeanne passed away September 1, 1965. Rankin was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Reverend EvaLyn Carlson and Nancy Doolen. He is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne, of 63 years, son Randy (Leigh Ann) and daughter Ann Marie Lusk. Five grandchildren: Kelly, Maria, and Jimmy Lusk, Rankin "Kirby" Ahlm III (Natalie), Nolan Ahlm (Megan), and great grandson, Max Alexander Ahlm.

Rankin returned to college and graduated from the School of Medical Science at the University of Minnesota, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in the School of Mortuary Science. Upon graduation he was honored with the annual Faculty Award. He served his internship with Holcomb-Henry and Godbout & Son Funeral homes in St. Paul, MN, and Dresser Funeral Service in Mora, MN. On January 1st, 2017, he retired and was granted Mortuary Practitioner Emeritus status. In 1985 Rankin and Jeanne successfully began a national catastrophe restoration company. Services were provided throughout the United States following major disasters, including hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, fires, bombings, etc. Restoration was performed in manufacturing facilities, schools, universities, state capital bldgs., hospitals, etc.

Rankin loved his faith, family, friends, hunting, fishing, golf, the MN Twins, the “North Woods” and “poking holes in the sky in his Cessna Cardinal 8034 Golf! His favorite hunting partner was Joey Heinlein of Detroit Lakes, MN. Thank you, Joey! Rankin’s warmth, generosity, and love touched many throughout his life, and he was greatly loved by all who knew him. His family is grateful to wonderful neighbors, Rahn Westby and Steve Kilbane for their constant dedication to Rankin’s end of life care.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are greatly appreciated. Please send to the Carmelite Order: Carmel of Our Lady of Divine Providence, 8251 Mount Carmel Road, Lake Elmo, MN 55042-9547, and to Our Lady of Peace Hospice & Home Health Care, 2076 St. Anthony Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104. Thank you.

A celebration of Rankin’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 515 Albert St. S., St. Paul, MN. Visitation at 10:00 A.M. with Mass following at 11:00 A.M. Interment after lunch at Resurrection Cemetery, Mendota Heights.