Michaell Raymond Rankin, affectionately known by many as ” Mike on the Bike,” or just basically “Mike” has passed away suddenly on January 13, 2026, in Maxwell, New Mexico, at the age of 62. Born on March 4, 1963, in Seattle, Washington, Mike lived a life full of heart, adventure, and generosity that touched everyone who had the privilege to know him.
The beloved son of Donna and John Rankin, and brother to his beloved sister Cara Gonzales. Mike grew up with a curiosity for how things worked and an appreciation for the beauty of both nature and technology. He turned that curiosity into a career, graduating from the Denver institute of Technology and building a respected profession in drafting and architectural design. Known for his precision, creativity, and dedication, Mike took pride in every blueprint, every finished project, and every idea brought to life.
Mike’s greatest pride, however, was not found in his professional accomplishments but in his family-especially his three sons birthed by Anita Trueba from oldest to youngest Ramon Trueba, Jonathan Trueba, and Christian Rankin. They were his purpose, his reason for laughter, and his daily motivation. His partner, Brenda Blaubach, shared his love of life and stood by his side through every joy and challenge for 13 years and who will forever cherish their time together. He is also survived by his parents, Donna and John Rankin, and his sister Cara Gonzales, who shared a lifelong bond of affection and playful competition-especially when it came to skydiving, an adventure Mike finally tackled himself after years of good-natured envy.
Those who knew Mike will remember him as someone whose heart was as strong as his handshake and whose selflessness knew no bounds. He was courageous, passionate, loyal, and endlessly kind- the type of man who would, quite literally, give you the shirt off his back, even if its sleeves were cut off. His humor, laid back nature and demeanor, and magnetic personality made him the center of every room without ever demanding attention. Mike radiated warmth, calm, and authenticity. He simply wanted peace, freedom, and happiness for everyone around him.
His hobbies and passions reflected his zest for life. From skiing to bowling, from cruising in muscle cars to embarking on spontaneous road trips or camping. Mike embraced moments of fun and discovery wherever he could find them. He had a knack for tinkering, collecting tools, and finding clever ways to fix nearly anything. if Mike didn’t have the gadget for the job, he’d in vent one himself-often with a “MacGyver” twist that only he could pull off. He loved nature and could spend hours outdoors, admiring, observing and collecting rocks, stones, and the simple beauty of the earth that grounded him. Please cherish these memories as we remember Mike, with a hat, some sunglasses a jacket with some snacks or beverage in his hand as he’s coming or going, and that very handsome smile we all know so much.
Please join for a viewing for Michael Rankin will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Alderete’s Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Mesa Church, with burial afterward at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Once we say our farewells we will meet with family and friends to reflect on our memories of Michael at the VFW from 3 pm to 6 pm please join us.
The Pallbearers will consist of Ramon Trueba, Jonathan Trueba, Christian Rankin, Salomon Marquez, Timmothy Gonzales, Mordecai Trueba, Ezrakai Blaubach and Silver Hunnicut.
We love you, Mike. We will miss you deeply and cherish every memory and laugh you gave us. Your parents John and Donna Rankin. Sister Cara Gonzales. Sons Ramon, Jonathan and Christian. Partner Brenda Blaubach, Grandkids Brittany, Azzie, Jaylynn, Ezrakai, Mordecai, Tesla, Karma, Layla, Giann, Rafael your great granddaughter Selah and all your family and friends will all miss you. Until we meet again.
