J. Eugene "Gene" Rank, M.D.

J. Eugene Rank, M.D. “Gene”

At age 93, death occurred on Saturday, August 27, 2022. Gene was born on November 9, 1928, in Saginaw, Michigan, son of John E. and Violet J. (Hager) Rank.  

He graduated from Saginaw High School in 1946, Master Gunner’s School with the U. S. Army, Ft. Bliss, Texas in 1951, Central Michigan University (Class Valedictorian) in 1956, Medical School at the University of Michigan in 1963, and a pediatric residency in 1963. After retirement he studied Fine Arts at Delta College from 1998 – 2000.

During his years in medicine, he was in a partnership in the practice of pediatrics with Drs. Heavenrich, Jarvi, and Mason. Gene was a Diplomat of The American Board of Pediatrics, a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, a member of the Michigan State Medical Association, Saginaw County Medical Association, Michigan Pediatric Society, and Northeastern Michigan Pediatric Society. He served seven years as Chairman of Pediatrics at Saginaw General Hospital and was also an off-campus Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Michigan State University Medical School.

During life, Gene enjoyed camping, fish, gardening, photography, painting, writing, and the study of mythology and historicity of religion. He was a member of the Saginaw Area Watermedia Artists, and of the education and discussion group, Serendipity.

He is survived by his wife Janet C. (Nee Savage); two sons: David and Andrew (Wendy) Rank; stepson, Mark (Kristi) Sauve; stepdaughter, Linda (Bob) (Nee Sauve) Leaym; daughter-in-law, Sue Rank; sister, Mary Lou Visnaw; brother, Charles R. Rank; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Stephen Rank.

In keeping with Gene’s wishes, cremation has taken place. His family will gather privately to celebrate his life.