Cynthia Ranke

Cynthia Ranke was born January 8th, 1947 to Walter and Rena Rakowski. She was their first and only girl, followed by three brothers - all of whom she adored: John (Rita) Rakowski , Roger (the late Kathy) Rakowski, and Tom ( Diane) Rakowski. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was a devoted and loving Mother to Craig (Amanda) Ranke and Lauren (Randy Neves) Ranke.

Cynthia led her life with her heart. She made courageous choices which carved a purposeful, soulful path. She was devoted to her Catholic faith and social justice. She made friends at the grocery store and found pleasure in simple things. She loathed spending money and avoided fancy things. She wouldn't dare leave leftovers unconsumed, often wrapping the last two bites on the table and shoving them in her purse.

When Cynthia didn't like something she'd make it clear with a quick "NO".  When she loved something, everyone knew because she easily tapped into wonder and awe. She loved bakeries, crispy cookies, Michigan corn, New Mexico sunshine, outdoor music, biking on The Paseo del Bosque in Albuquerque or Seven Lakes State Park in Holly, hiking Ghost Ranch in New Mexico and all the gifts of nature from God. She was a gifted writer and lover of poetry.

A proud native of Detroit, in the 1950's her parents operated a work bar called Walt + Rena's, across from Long Manufacturing and the family lived above the bar. As a child Cynthia would scamper down the stairs and go visit her dad while he tended bar.  She would mingle with the patrons and they would buy her snacks.

Cynthia went to Santa Maria elementary, and attended High School at St Ladislaus where she edited the "St. Ladislaus Scroll" and served as Vice President of the student council while dating Larry Ranke, the President.

Her first job was at Kresge's, then Michigan Bell, then at the Olsonite company in Detroit where she saved enough money to buy her first car, an Opel Kadett. Cynthia and Larry married in 1968 and had their first child, Craig in 1969. Their daughter Lauren followed in 1972. In 1977 they moved to the small town of Holly. They enjoyed visiting her brother Roger and his wife Kathy on Lake Braemer just a couple miles away. In the early 80's the marriage dissolved, and Cynthia and the kids moved to Grand Blanc in 1984. As a single mom, Cynthia took a job as court recorder and then a clerical position with the Flint prosecuting attorney's office where she served over 20 years. In this job she became known for her literary skills and was tapped to write legal briefs.

Cynthia took an early retirement, moved to Albuquerque for more sunshine and to dedicate herself to working for the Center for Action and Contemplation where she could focus on her passion in faith-based justice. She built a loving community there, loved hiking with her friends and attending exercise classes at the Senior Center in Albuquerque.

Cynthia was a dedicated volunteer. For the past several years she was a helper at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque. She often volunteered at events at the Ghost Ranch retreat center which shares land with the home of the iconic artist Georgia O'Keeffe. After 20 years enjoying retirement in New Mexico Cynthia returned to Michigan, Spring of 2025 to be closer to family.

Our dear Cynthia Ranke transitioned to Heaven on November 29, 2025 at the age of 78. Celebration of life at Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston on Friday, December 5th from 4:00 pm-8:00 pm with an informal sharing time at 5:00pm.

Memorial Mass Saturday, December 6th at 12 Noon at St. Andrew Catholic Church, Rochester Hills with visiting at church at 11:30 am.
Interment at All Saints  Cemetery, Waterford.

Memorial donations may be made to Kino Border Initiative https://www.kinoborderinitiative.org/

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