Nanette Louise Charlebois (Nan Rankin) age 76, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, at her home in Bear, Idaho. Surrounded by the beauty of the pastures, trees, and mountains, Nan spent her final days with her devoted partner of over 25 years, Lowell Tietje, her two children, Chad and Sarah, and close family and friends. Born on July 2, 1949 in Glens Falls, New York, Nan was the daughter of Lois and Ray Charlebois. She grew up in a home that blended faith and creativity. Nan began her academic journey at Cornell University, where she completed two years of study with aspirations of becoming a school teacher. However, life had other plans. She met, fell in love with, and married Edward Rankin (now deceased), and chose to dedicate herself to raising a family - a decision she never regretted. Before settling in Seattle, she and her husband Ed moved many times throughout their time together. Throughout her life, Nan worked primarily in administrative roles. She brought warmth and professionalism to her work from working at a small chiropractic office in Pennsylvania to serving as a legal secretary at several prominent law firms in Seattle. But it was outside the workplace where Nan’s spirit truly shone. She loved to cook and entertain-welcoming friends, family, and guests into her home with open arms and delicious meals. Inspired by cooking shows but rarely following the recipes, she created dishes that were delicious and comforting.
Nan found joy in painting pottery and wooden boards (that Lowell hand cut for her), drawing, reading, and crafting. She cherished time spent with Lowell in Bear, Idaho watching the animals and enjoyed entertaining and evening “toddy’s” on their back deck while talking about their days and enjoying the quiet beauty of nature. Their bond was one of deep companionship and love. Nan leaves behind a loving family who will forever carry her memory: her later life partner Lowell Tietje; son Chad (Jenn), daughter Sarah (Marc); nine grandchildren; beloved sister Pam; Lowell’s children Kim (Michael) and Lowell Jr (Pam); nephews Todd, Tim, and Tom and their families along with many close friends and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband Edward Rankin, parents Lois and Ray Charlebois, grandparents and others. May Nan’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her-and may we continue to honor her legacy through acts of kindness, creativity, hospitality, and love.
