Ronald Carson Rasmussen

1939 - 2016

After a long illness, Ron Rasmussen died on November 30, 2016, in Woodland, California. Ron was born to Lena and Hans Peter Rasmussen in Chico, California, January 6, 1939. He attended Gerber Elementary School and graduated from Red Bluff High in 1957. He attended Chico State University one semester before running out of money and completing freshman year at Shasta Junior College. He returned to Chico as a sophomore, working at the Chico State cafeteria and later at Wentz Market, where he continued to work part time until 1964.

Ron played varsity football during his freshman and sophomore years before breaking both arms in a vehicle accident. He pledged Delta Sigma Phi fraternity as a sophomore and was a member throughout the years, staying in contact with fraternity brothers until his death. He met his wife Susan at a Delta Sigma Phi fraternity party. They were married in Chico on December 27, 1961. They continued their education at Chico for a fifth year and each earned teaching credentials in 1964.

Ron began his teaching and coaching career at Colusa High in August of 1964, teaching social studies and coaching football. Eventually, he taught P.E. classes also. He was an assistant coach to Dave Dana in the 1972 Optimist Football Game after they coached the CHS team to an undefeated season. Three of the CHS players were selected to play on the north team that year.

The same year, Ron started a wrestling program at Colusa High School, enabling a number of students to experience that sport. The program lasted four years.

After 15 years at CHS, Ron moved to Egling Middle School where he taught various classes, including social studies, reading, math, and ESL. He continued to work as a grocery clerk for several summers. He officiated football for 10 years during that time. After retiring in 1997, he helped coach the Williams High School football team for several years.

After his wife retired in 1999, Sue and Ron spent 15 winters in Lake Havasu, Arizona, where they met many new friends and enjoyed the mild weather. Retirement provided more time for Ron to pursue his artistic interests, including stained glass art and woodworking. He also spent several years as a volunteer for the Colusa County Volunteers.

Ron loved all sports, particularly golf, and was a long-time member of the Colusa Golf course. He spent many afternoons and weekends playing with friends until he was no longer able to golf. In 2013, Ron was recognized by the CHS Alumni Association with a "You Inspired Me" award for his contribution to athletic opportunities that enriched the lives of many CHS students.

He is preceded in death by his parents. He leaves his wife of nearly 55 years, Susan; three daughters: Renee Rasmussen-Smith (Stan) of Chico, Liisa Hancock (Jeff) of Gridley, and Amy Rasmussen (Tony Sanchez) of Oakland; eight grandchildren: Jessica Rasmussen of Bremerton, WA, Jeramie Rasmussen of Chico, Josh Rasmussen of Seattle, WA, Kayla Kelley of Santa Rosa, Carinne Sines of Gridley, Seth Rasmussen of Chico, Bodhi and Tycho Sanchez of Oakland; and three great-grandchildren: Landon and Makiah Prendergast of Bremerton, WA, and Lane Sines of Gridley.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 10, 2016, at 10:00 a.m. at McNary Moore Funeral Chapel, 107 5th Street, Colusa, CA. A reception will follow at the First Presbyterian Church Hall, 4th and Jay Streets, Colusa.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Colusa Redhawks Athletic Foundation or to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of McNary-Moore Funeral Service FD-410 www.mcnarymoorefuneralservice.com.