Erling Rasmussen

1924 - 2017

Rasmussen, Erling
Erling Anton Rasmussen, passed from this world on Tuesday, October 3, 2017. He was born on January 5, 1924 near Everly, Iowa to Chris and Mina Rasmussen. He left behind his best friend, his wife, Ruth Elwood Rasmussen. Erling was 93, a Marine, great husband, father, grandfather, and avid Cubs fan who never lost his ability to smile, laugh, and fill the room with warmth. Most of his life was dedicated to helping young people through education, as a coach, teacher, and Dean of Students. In 1988, Erling retired after 38 years of teaching. Following retirement, Erling and Ruth moved to Fairfield Bay, AR. They lived by the lake, entertained on the lake, and met many, many friends over the years. Erling continued to love his gardening and wood working. Both Ruth and Erling were very active in the community and their church – Kirk of the Hills. They started the latest journey of their lives on July 15, 2017 when they moved to Mackinaw, IL to be closer to family. Erling served his county during World War II in the Pacific Theatre. He was a member of the Fourth Marine Division, 25th Regimental Weapons Company, and served on Saipan, Tinian, and Iwo Jima. Following the war, Erling and Ruth were married in Hiawatha, KS – 71 years. He was preceded in death by his parents Chris and Mina Rasmussen, sister Eleanor Cook, brother Norman Rasmussen, father-in-law and-mother in law Bill and Alice Elwood, sister-in-law Dorothy Hill and son-in-law James Causey. Erling is survived by a family he loved and cherished greatly, including Ruth; sister-in-law, Mary Hansen; daughter, Cindy and husband, Bob Olmstead; and son, Tony and wife, Rita Rasmussen. In addition, Erling had a wonderful family of grandchildren and great grandchildren, Jennifer Johnson (Jeff) and children, Emma and Kaitlyn; Cristy Beccue (Phil) and children, Shianna (Blake), Lily, and Kaleb; Rachel Naramore (Brian) and children, Abbigail and Elizabeth; Michael Rasmussen (Katie); Lois Olmstead and son, Samuel; and Bob B. Olmstead. Visitation was on Friday, October 6, from 5-7 p.m. at HAENSEL FUNERAL HOME, 501 S. Orchard, Mackinaw, IL 61755. Erling's memorial service will be on Saturday, October 7, at 10:30 am, the Rev. Dave Aanason presiding. Memorials may be given to The Kirk of The Hills Presbyterian, 250 Dave Creek Parkway, Fairfield Bay, AR 72088. Online condolences may be made at www.haenselfuneralhome.com