Scott Rankin passed away on May 15, 2014, at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, Calif., surrounded by his loving family, wife Donna; sons Albert Rankin and Jason Rankin; daughters Rose Rankin and Renee Boyatt; and grandchildren Dallon and Jayden Rankin, Daniella Thorne and Gavin Boyatt. He was born in 1945 and raised in Oakland, Calif., spending his summers at his grandmother's cabin in Coffee Creek. His dream of being the third generation living on the "Creek" came true in 1980. As written by his son, Jason, "My dad was a 'mountain man.' He always reminded me of 'Jeremiah Johnson.' A city boy, raised as a plumber, who left for the mountains to raise a family."

He lived life his way. He was honest to a fault, and very direct. Any advice you received from him was valuable, even if it hurt to be said. For those who knew him well, we always appreciated the raw truths of life woven through wisdom and common sense. He could make you smile as he told you, you made a mistake and to learn from it. His love was always there! And if he was proud of you he'd tell everyone else, forgetting to tell you. It was just how he was!

The family home was always maintained. Even after three heart attacks he still found a way to mow the lawns, trim the tress and split his own firewood. The woods and mountains are his enduring legacy for future generations. He was a great man, a great husband, and great father. May the "mountain man" rest in peace and protect us forever.