Norman R Rank

Norman Robert Rank, 96, of Marshalltown, passed away on Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at Southridge Nursing Home under the care of Iowa River Hospice. Funeral services for Norman will be held on Monday, September 23, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown. Visitation will be on Sunday, September 22, 2019 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. also at the funeral home. For more information or to send a condolence, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Norman and his family. He was born on October 12, 1922 to Harry and Gertrude (Shelton) Rank in Marshall County. He grew up on the family farm graduating from Green Mountain School in 1940. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in 1942 and became a staff sergeant serving in the Pacific Theatre as a tank mechanic during World War II. A fond memory was escorting President Truman to his yacht while stationed in Washington, D.C. He was honorably discharged in 1952. He met his future wife, Doris Keihn, at the local skating rink in Marshalltown. While on furlough he returned to marry Doris on a snowy Christmas Day in 1945. To this union, a daughter, Claudia, was born. He opened his accounting and tax service in 1948. Norman worked for many businesses in town as their bookkeeper. He ran this business with his wife until his retirement at the age of 90. Never having been to college in his earlier years, Norman graduated from Marshalltown Community College with an AA degree at the age of 80. He joined the Marshalltown Masonic Organizations in 1958. Norman was a 50 year member of Marshall Lodge #108 A.F. & A.M. serving as Worshipful Master, Signet Chapter #38 R.A.M. as High Priest, King Solomon Council #20 R.S.M. as Illustrious Master and St. Aldemar Commandery #30 K.T. serving as Eminent Commander. He also held many local, state, and international offices in the Masonic bodies. In the Grand Council Royal & Select Masters of Iowa he is/was the most senior living Past Illustrious Grand Master. He was a recipient of the Order of the Purple Cross of York. He would receive many awards and honors along his journey through Mason work. He was a very dedicated member. He was well known for his ability to memorize. Norman served on the city council in the 60s. He was a board member for the Frank Pierce Trust. Served as Sec-Treas of the Board of Trustees for the Masonic organizations also Sec-Treas of the Masonic Holding Corp. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and the NRA. In August of 2010 Norman had a chance to go on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. and on Memorial Day of this year he was awarded a Quilt of Valor. He was also an avid reader. He is survived by his daughter, Claudia (Jerry) Flathers of Marshalltown; grandchildren, Kelcy (Tom) Gabriel and Kyle Flathers; and great grandchildren, Carter, Rylee and Harper Gabriel. Norman was preceded in death by his wife Doris; parents Harry and Gertrude; brother Richard; and sisters Frances Nutter and Beverly Rolston.