Eilert Ranneklev

Eilert Ranneklev, a beloved father and grandfather, peacefully went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 21, 2025, surrounded by love at his son’s home in Saint Johns, Florida. He was 91 years old.

Eilert was born on May 14, 1933, in Arendal, Norway, to the late Nils Emil and Olga Amanda Ranneklev. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Anette Ranneklev, and his grandson, Aslan Stone. He is also preceded in death by his siblings, Lars Ranneklev, Thorvald Ranneklev, Oddlaug Asbjornsen, Kåre Rannekleiv, Odd Rannekleiv, Finn Ranneklev, and Einar Rannekleiv.

At the young age of 16, Eilert embarked on an extraordinary journey, leaving his home and sailing the world with the Norwegian Merchant Marines. After his remarkable voyage, he settled in Long Island, New York, where he began his career as a home builder.

In the late 1950s, Eilert was drafted into the United States Army. He served most of his time in Germany, where he demonstrated his dedication and commitment, ultimately being Honorably Discharged in 1957.

After his military service, Eilert entered the construction industry, partnering with his brother Olav and friend Petter Nilsen to establish PEO Construction in New York. Later, Eilert and Olav founded Ranneklev Brothers, Inc., a company that would continue to thrive for over four decades. Throughout their careers, the brothers worked tirelessly, constructing numerous large custom homes in Westchester County, New York, leaving a lasting legacy in the community.

In December of 1960, Eilert married Anette Jensen. Together, they began a new chapter, raising their four children in the charming town of Katonah, New York. Eilert’s commitment to his family extended beyond his personal life, as he became a founding member of Bedford Community Church in Bedford, New York. Eilert’s dedication to the church was evident in his role as an Elder, where he was instrumental in the church’s growth and development. Notably, Eilert was responsible for constructing all three phases of the church building, showcasing his exceptional skills and craftsmanship.

In 2014, Eilert and Anette decided to relocate to Clarksville, Tennessee which brought them close to their daughter Laila. Seeking a new community of believers, they quickly became members of Memorial Baptist Church where they continued to be involved in The Gideons International ministry.

Eilert is survived by his daughter, Laila (Jeff) Stone; sons, Mikal (Beth) Ranneklev, Nils (Laura) Ranneklev, and John (Victoria) Ranneklev; sibling: Olav (Solving) Ranneklev; grandchildren, Jessica (Roy) Coosey, Levi (Heather) Stone, Elias (Rebekah) Stone, Kasandra (Ben) Ferrell, Mikayla Stone, Jennalise (Evan) Moore, Kirsten Ranneklev, Erik Ranneklev, Kelsey (Dylan) SeeRockers, Evan Ranneklev, Christie Ranneklev, Lars Ranneklev, Mark Ranneklev, and Raquel Ranneklev; great-grandchildren, Rhys Coosey, Hezekiah Coosey, Willa-Jane Coosey, Naomi Coosey, Bentley Stone, Addison Stone, Molly Stone, Shyka Stone, Lorelai Stone, Charlotte Stone, Laila Stone, Abigail Ferrell, Hannah Ferrell, Abraham Stone, Evangeline Moore, Jubilee Moore, and Eliza Moore.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Memorial Baptist Church in Clarksville, TN. Pastor Robert Butler will officiate the service. The burial will follow at Memorial Baptist Church Cemetery. Friends and family are welcome to visit the family during the visitation period from 1:00 pm until the service begins on Saturday.

His six grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Gideons International Gideons.org.

Arrangements are in the care of McReynolds-Nave & Larson Funeral Home.