Wendell Rankin

Wendell attended Anson High School, Anson, TX. He went on to serve in the US Army in Germany. Wendell was the owner of Impact Sign Company. He was a devoted husband, father, brother and friend. Wendell loved to travel and had a passion for painting. His passion for painting led him to be an amazing artist, allowing him to paint Elvis Presley’s airplane with Lisa Marie and TCB (Taking Care of Business in a Flash) on a lightning bolt.

Wendell was a gifted artist who transformed Coleman stoves into masterpieces for chili cook-off competitors. His vibrant creations added flavor to every event. Wendell was a lifetime member of CASI (Chili Appreciation Society International). In 1991, Wendell was awarded the CASI Chilihead of the Year. Later on, in 2009 was awarded the CASI Poster Award, and in 2017 the CASI Pioneer Award.

Not only was he an amazing artist, but he touched everyone with his sense of humor and love for life. Wendell loved talking to people and making new friends, and he never met a stranger. Wendell's warm heart touched many, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. His absence will be deeply felt by the community he enriched with his artistry and kindness. Wendell's legacy lives on in the colorful memories he painted in our hearts.

Wendell is survived by his spouse, Carole Rankin; Children, Kathy Oliver, and Gregg Rankin (Suzy); Stepchildren, Joe Spittler, Sharon Goldstein, Chris Spittler (Vanessa), Shana Keller (Brian); Grandchildren, Kyle Bear (Brandi), Chelsea Rankin, Heather Wilkes (John), Zack Dwyer, Jeremy Goldstein, Elizabeth Dwyer, Kayci Spittler, Presley Spittler; Great-grandchildren, Logan and Bryce Bear, Isaac, Nathan and John Wilkinson, Kinsley Kouba, Jackson Dwyer, and Emmalyn Herron; Siblings, Twin brother Wanell Rankin, Sister in law Opal Rankin, Wilma Rankin-Little. Wendell is survived by many nieces, nephews, other family and friends

Wendell is preceded in death by his parents Robert Dee and Dora Lee Rankin, his first wife Jo Rankin, and 3 brothers: Denzel, Willie, and Doug Rankin.

A visitation for Wendell will be held Monday, February 26, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at J.E. Foust & Son Funeral Directors, 523 S Main St., Grapevine, TX 76051. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, at 523 S Main St., Grapevine, TX 76051. A committal service will occur Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 3:30 PM to 4:00 PM at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 5725 Colleyville Blvd, Colleyville, TX 76034.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Wendell’s honor to the CASI Scholarship Fund (mail to: Sherrie Davis, CASI Scholarship Administrator, 125 E San Augustine, Deer Park, TX 77536 or www.casichili.net/scholarships