Our loving father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Chris Lea Rankin unexpectedly passed away on September 24, 2023, in West Valley City, Utah. He was born on June 17, 1980, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Chris’s biggest accomplishments in life were his children and grandchildren. He had a passion for cooking for his friends and family gatherings. Chris’s BBQ skills were on point, especially his steaks! He loved working his magic with spices and making Christmas Caramels with his mom.

Chris enjoyed tubing down rivers with his kids. Camping with his kids and family gave him great joy. He also had a passion for tinkering with and fixing cars with his dad.

From elementary school through adulthood, he cherished a great friendship and brotherhood with Markos Rondas. Together they enjoyed concerts, trips, and shooting pool. Chris was also a lifelong fan of the Seattle Seahawks!

Professionally, he worked for Creminelli Foods for the last several years, most recently as their maintenance technician.

Chris’s biggest and proudest job of all time was the Christmas morning present “Passer Outer.”

He was the proud father of his son, Donovan, and his daughter, Cecelia. She will forever be his “Daddy’s Girl.” Chris was the protector and amazing big brother of his sister, Tasha.

Chris is survived by his son, Donovan (Mirna), Donovan’s mother, Tiffany, Cecelia, Cecelia’s mother, Chez, and stepson, Tristan. His parents, Jeanne and Bill, sister Tasha (Michael), his brother, Bobby, grandchildren, Mia and Ritchie, nephew Daxton, niece Journee, and birth brothers, Anthony and Dillon.

He is preceded in death by his birth mother, Teresa Romo, brother Ryan, aunts Patty and Claudia, uncle Pix, and Cousin, Bubba.

Chris – you have left a big hole in the hearts of many and will be remembered for many things: but your sparkling eyes and big beautiful smile will remain forever in our hearts.

A public viewing will be held in Chris’s honor on Friday, September 29, 2023, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah 84123.

Chris will be cremated, and the family will announce his Celebration of Life at a later date.