Murray Irving Rankin

5th June 1956 - 31st March 2026
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Service Details
J Fraser & Sons Chapel
Corner Esk & Doon Streets
Invercargill
Thursday 9 April 2026, 10:00AM
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RANKIN, Murray Irving

Formerly of Invercargill, having retired to Wânaka.

Passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on 31 March 2026, aged 69 years. 

Dearly loved son of the late Ray and Mary Rankin. Loved husband of the late Gwenda Rankin (née McLeod). Cherished friend of Ann Walker. Loved father and father-in-law of Gregory and Rebecca (Brisbane), Simon and Ché (Wellington), and Anna and Scott (Invercargill).

Adored Grandad of Olivia, Harriet, Hugo (Brisbane), and Charlie and Thomas (Invercargill). Loved brother and brother-in-law of Keith and Jeanette (Invercargill), Allan (Motueka). Loved brother-in-law of Fiona and Ray (Christchurch), and Elspeth and David (Paraparaumu). Loved uncle of Leah and Paul (Christchurch), Hayden and Rachel (Invercargill), Lauren, Finlay, Callum and partners (London). 

A service to celebrate Murray’s life will be held at J Fraser & Sons Chapel, cnr Esk and Doon Streets, Invercargill, on Thursday 9 April at 10.00am. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Southland would be appreciated.

The family sincerely thank the staff of the Medical Ward at Southland Hospital, the Dunedin and Christchurch Haematology teams, Rânui House in Christchurch, and Hospice Southland for their amazing care and support.

Messages to 17 Swinton Street, Gladstone, Invercargill 9810.

Messages

I knew Murray as a neighbour, only for a few years and part time as I built a house next to his on Ridgecrest.
We had an over the fence friendship discussing house building, gardening and of course, the adventures of Roger. The first time I met Murray, he had rushed up from Invercargill to rescue Roger from a fall over a wall. I did not then know that Roger was a robot lawnmower and puzzled why Murray did not look more concerned! I will miss his friendliness, energy and sense of humour.. Seeing Roger mowing diligently out my kitchen window will always makes me think of Murray.

My best wishes and condolences
Nikki Carey
33 Ridgecrest
Nikki Carey, Wanaka
My late husband Brian, and I, knew Murray for a number of years as Murray worked for and became a partner in the firm of what is now McCulloch and Co, Chartered Accountants. He was always cheerful, diligent in everything he did and a man with a welcoming and friendly disposition. He went through his cancer treatment, always positive about what he was going through but sadly it was not the outcome we had all hoped for. To his family and friends I send my very deepest sympathy, and please be comforted by the fact that "he ran the race set before him" and is now at peace with no more suffering.
Margaret Hall, Wanaka
What sad news to hear. I had an excellent long running business and social relationship with Murray through the 1980’s and early 1990’s. A thoroughly good man. RIP Murray
Roger Dawson, Christchurch
This year marks the 14th year since we knew each other. Over all these years, he was far more than a business partner to me. he was a trusted mentor, a steady supporter, and a sincere warm friend from the very start I joined in this seafood industry.

He was a man of exceptional integrity, kindness, responsibility, and thoughtfulness, always considerate and looking out for others. His guidance and support played such an important role in my professional growth and life journey. Even after his retirement, we still kept in touch, and I truly valued our friendship.

Coincidentally, I was just speaking of him last week with others. In my culture in China. I deeply believe this kind of connection is fate. The news of his passing has left me heartbroken and shocked.

May he rest in peace, free from all pain and suffering, and be gently at ease in the next world. He will be deeply missed, and his memory will stay in my heart forever.

Sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.
Elly Pang, Shenzhen. China
Sincere sympathy to all the family. Murray was our Accountant for many years and l always appreciated his kind words and encouragement.
Just prior to his stem cell l had coffee and a lovely chat in Windsor. So much respect for him! A beautiful service.
Kindest Regards
Diane McLean, Invercargill