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James Rasmussen Obituary
Jim is survived by Sonja (Gandrud) his beloved wife of 66 years, son Eric Rasmussen, daughter Kristi (John) Bartho, and treasured grandsons Murray (fiancee June) Bartho, Evan Bartho, and Noah Rasmussen Charles, their "Tapa." He is lovingly remembered by sister Ann Haushild, brother Peter Rasmussen, and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Laurence and Gertrude Rasmussen and his brother John.
Educated at St. Olaf College (BA '58), University of Utah (BS '59), and Colorado State University (PhD in Atmospheric Science '68). Jim had an illustrious career in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) while living in the U.S. and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in Geneva, Switzerland. Highlights include Director of the Climate Analysis Center, Director of Meteorology of the National Weather Service at NOAA, Director of World Weather Watch Department at WMO. He capped his career as NOAA's Director of Environmental Research Laboratories, retiring in 1999 and moving to Longwood Circle in Frederick. Among his many awards are the U.S. Department of Commerce Gold Medal and the CSU William E. Morgan Alumni Achievement Award. In retirement he consulted internationally and continued his involvement with the American Meteorological Society.
Despite his towering career (and size 14 shoes), Jim was known for his gentle presence, wry sense of humor, and an endless collection of stories and jokes. He was also a gifted artist, woodworker, birder, and an inveterate doodler.
Jim and Sonja shared a passion for skiing, hiking, golfing, traveling the world, and spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed the Little Boys Book Club and the Frederick Coffee Club. Whether sharing dinner and bridge, competing in MISGA, or spending time with his grandsons, Jim lived fully. He was well loved.
The Rasmussen family is profoundly grateful to the staff and friends in The Meadows at Homewood for the compassionate care and companionship Jim received during his final years with Parkinson's Disease.
Per Jim's wishes, his body was donated to the State Anatomy Board of Maryland.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family invites you look at the sky, enjoy the clouds and think of Jim. James Rasmussen
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Rasmussen
Sonja Rasmussen
May 23, 2025
So sorry to have to send this news, Sara.
Wayne Tellekson
May 22, 2025
Jim,
The world looked different for you from your towering height. I peaked at 5'9" and have gone downhill from there.
I'm sorry for Sonja's and Ann's loss. You were a great guy. I remember the days in Ytterboe -- you and Deno wirth Dave L and Bernie as JC's. You left us before Trump finished off your workplace. Good work while you were able to do it.
Telek
Tina Fahnestock
May 18, 2025
In loving memory of a GREAT GREAT GREAT uncle!
Joan Mehl
May 18, 2025
Jim was a warm, kind and witty friend. He will be missed. Thinking of his family.
Joan
Walter binnix
May 17, 2025
Jim
Was a good friend here at Homewood he will be missed bye
Many I enjoyed knowing him.
Janet O´Brien
May 16, 2025
I´m really going to miss Jim. I enjoyed his sense of humor and his smile. He was a treasure to care for at Homewood. Staff and fellow residents are mourning the loss of an incredible man and friend! My heart goes out to his family
Kristi
May 16, 2025
So lucky he was my Dad - xo Kristi
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