I have done some googling and determined that I can fairly simply convert my 3 ring crankset to a double by adjusting the front derailleur and getting a bash guard. What I don't know is if it is possible to keep the two larger rings and get rid of granny.

It looks like most bashguards are made to replace the BIG ring. I have a 22/32/44 tooth configuration right now and just want to keep the 32/44. Can I still put the bash guard next to the 44 and have it work?

I am totally unfamiliar with doing this.

The granny is just about always a different bolt circle than the other two. 110/74 is a typical example.

So if you want to make a triple to a double using the existing outer rings, you won't be able to move them inward. You can simply drop the granny, and but a bash guard made to go outside of the outer chainring. Otherwise if you want to use the three existing positions, with the bashguard where the outer now is, you'll need to replace the (now) middle with one the same size but with the graiiy's Bolt diameter.

Just so you know, many bikes have the chainstay angled as it passes by the crank, so while a 26 or 26 will clear as a granny, often a 34 or 36 won't. (my commuter is that way and the 26t and 36t both just clear the stay with 1-2mm to spare).

Depends on the crank that you have. Some of the cheap cranks have the chain rings riveted on, they are really meant to be throw aways. So without knowing what model you have and the construction, I would not bet on it. +1 You may not have clearance for a larger ring moved inboard.

Remove inner chainring, set L limit screw of FD, and (optionally) set up the shifter so it uses the first two positions.