Fr. Michael Rank (1865-1915)

Father Michael was born in Severance, Kan., September 29, 1865 – an early member of St. Benedict’s Parish, Bendena.  He followed his brother Father Ambrose Rank to the monastery, and was ordained to the priesthood at St. Benedict’s Abbey Church, Atchison, December 19, 1891.  Fifteen years before his death he contracted Tuberculosis and was sent to Pueblo, Colo.  He regained some health after following a very strict regimen, part of which involved his sleeping outside in a tent.  He later founded the parish in Ordway, Colo.  He was compelled to resign because of the return of his illness and died October 18 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Pueblo, Colo.