After fighting off the after effects of double bypass surgery, Ron Rankin, 75, of Kidd Island Bay died around 6 this morning at Kootenai Medical Center. Kerri Thoresen, Ron's daughter, called just now to confirm this sad fact. He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Alice, five children, at least 19 grandchildren, and at least four great-grandchildren (I don't have up-to-date obituary info.) Also, he leaves behind an assortment of community leaders, media and this reporter who came to admire his drive and commitment to his various causes, although we didn't necessarily agree with him on everything. The Old Lion will be missed.

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