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Edna Margaret Jones
1926 - 2014
Edna Margaret Jones
1926 - 2014
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1926
DIED
2014
Edna Jones Obituary
Edna was born in Wheatland, Wyo., on Dec. 13, 1926 to Joseph and Hazelle (Shute) Fenimore, the eleventh of twelve children.
Her family settled in Mt. Vernon, Wash., where Edna met and married her first husband, Ray 'Bud' Rasmussen. Together, they raised their three children, Russell, Reginald, and Linda. During her many years in the Skagit Valley, Edna had the privilege of first working with George Ovenell, then as a legal secretary/paralegal for the law firm Hammack and Fowler, and later in tandem with James Hammack, whom she truly revered as a friend and mentor. In 1981 Edna married Johnny Jones. In 1984, always up for an adventure, they decided to strike out for Alaska and never looked back. Alaska and Kenai became their home. One of her most successful and gratifying ventures was Nanny's House, a day care center she operated for many years. A huge believer in early childhood education, she positively influenced the lives of many children in Kenai and beyond. Edna was an involved member of the Kenai community; Edna's hobbies included reading (she will truly miss her book club), gardening, cross words, walking her brown dachshund, Mistee. Both were iconic and recognizable figures around the Kenai community.
Edna was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Hazelle Fenimore, first husband, Ray Rasmussen, second husband, Johnny Jones, son, Reginald Rasmussen, and siblings Charles, Robert, Raymond, Louis, Ruth and Benjamin Wells, and Geniece, Lucile, Maxine, and Guy Fenimore.
Edna is survived by her son Russ and wife, JoAnn Rasmussen, of Prosser, Wash.; her daughter and partner, Linda Rasmussen Bruce and Tom Brook of Kenai; step-children, Marie Stevens of Omak, Wash., and Mike Jones of Brewster, Wash.; grandchildren, Mary Beth Rudd, Trina Lynn Andersen, Adrienne McGlamery, and James Rasmussen; step-grandchildren, Shane Francis, Tiana Stevens, and Seth Jones; and great-grandchildren, Jackson Rudd, Erik Andersen, and soon-to-be-born Conner McGlamery; as well as one brother, Stanley Fenimore of Tacoma, Wash.; many extended family; and dear friends Jaci LeDoux, Jennifer Schwartz, Tammy Thompson and Donna Jepson.
Arrangements were cared for by Peninsula Memorial Chapel. Edna's obituary and online guestbook may be visited at www.alaskanfuneral.com. At her request, no formal service is planned. Memorial donations in her name can be made to the Kenai Public Library, Kenai Boys and Girls Club, or the Kenai Senior Center.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Patricia Taylor
June 17, 2014
My condolences to the family of Edna. I was doing family research when I found this posting. Technically, Edna would be my 2nd cousin, twice removed. We both descend from John McClary and Sarah Brown Taylor. I would be happy to share my genealogy information with any family members. Pat Taylor, [email protected]
Jaci LeDoux
June 11, 2014
Edna, Sheila has not forgotten you. She was looking at pictures of you on my phone and so happy to see you. The angel I gave you that Linda and Tami gave back to me hangs in my kitchen. I told Sheila that is Grandma Edna angel. Sheila (out of the mouths of babes) asked God to bring you back. An innocent babe can know all our hearts desires. Love, Jaci and Sheila
Mary-Lee Merz
May 27, 2014
When I was in my late teen's, early twenty's, I knew Edna and spent lots of time with her when she lived in Burlington. The 60's were a tumultuous time in the United States and I was a young women making the transition from university to the world of work. We had many conversations about the meaning of being human and the best choices to make to live a conscious life. Providing service to the broader community was important to Edna and I'm sure my choice to become a teacher was influenced by our many conversations. I emigrated to Canada and lost touch with Edna. I have wondered how Edna's life was unfolding. Reading the Guest Book, I see it unfolded with family, service to others and loving friends. What a rich life. A testimony to a wonderful woman who had a great influence in my life. My only regret is that I wasn't able to find Edna sooner. However, I believe she knew how I valued our friendship so many years ago. My condolences to Edna's family and to all who were touched by and loved her.
Les Merz
May 23, 2014
When I was 12 years old during the summer of 1967 I stayed with Edna & Bud at their home in Burlington so I could pick strawberries. I had the time of my life. The entire Rasmussen family treated me kindly and were quite tolerant of the antics of a 12. Edna was such a sweet lady. May she rest in peace. My sincere condolences to her family and many friends.
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Ryan Huss-Green
March 25, 2014
Nanny been one month since you're passing in this physical life I know you're still here spiritually and I feel your presence when I feel down I love you nanny thank you again for everything you have done for me in this physical Life
Cindy Hedgecock
March 6, 2014
Dear Edna,
On a clear night I will look up for the brightest star, and this will be you
March 6, 2014
My heart aches, my friend Edna, who I will always remember and am so grateful that I had a chance to know. So many fond memories, regrets?? yes, in that I wish I could have spent more precious time with you, love Cindy Hedgecock
Ryan Huss-Green
March 6, 2014
I was one of Nannys children will never forget the way Nanny touched my life in so manny ways I appreciate everything you have done for me I can't put it into words there's not enough words in the dictionary. I appreciate all the talks we've had over the years you've molded me into the adult I am today god bless you nanny rest in peace. The memories that I will always have the times we spent together good bad and everything in between love you Ryan
March 4, 2014
May Edna's incredible life be a reminder to us all that one person CAN make a difference.
K.D. Mount Vernon, WA.
Rev. 21:3, 4 ~ Kim
March 4, 2014
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Jennifer Peter (Schwartz)
March 3, 2014
Edna Jones, was to me as she was to countless others a mentor, the truest friend a friend could be, and an example to others how life should be lived. I met Edna in January of 2001. I was travelling to the Peninsula for a job interview and I was searching for a place to rent in case I was hired. Her number was the only number I dialed from the newspaper's apartment listings. I knew as soon as I heard her voice I had to meet her. I met her and instantly felt as though I had known her all my life. She and I soon became fast friends. I spent many hours over coffee and the occasional glass of wine just talking with her. Our friendship grew and I truly loved her as if she was my family. She was my Alaskan family. I always knew where she stood because she was firm in her beliefs. I admired, appreciated, respected, and loved her for that! I will miss her more than there are words in the dictionary for missing someone. She touched so many lives. I love you, Edna. Say hello to Mistee for me!
Doug Houpt
March 3, 2014
I say farewell to a friend who accepted me with all my faults. She was kind and gentle and was fond of my two sons, Stewart and Jason Houpt. We will miss her dearly.
Bill DeHon
March 1, 2014
Had numerous conferences with Edna when she worked with J Hammack and at church. She was always kind, and most helpful. She had time for supporting others. Her willingness to stop and help whenever needed I will always remember. Her legal knowledge was outstanding. We have lost a wonderful lady.
Lori Beer
March 1, 2014
My two daughters, Katey and Natalie, had the good fortune to be cared for by Edna; lovingly known as Nanny. I remember entering Nanny's house in the morning at drop-off time to the sweet smell of her homemade waffles and the excitement of what that day's activities might be. At pick-up time I was greeted by giggling, happy children usually in various dress-up outfits with a pile of precious artwork in their cubby. Nanny loved children and she understood how important play was to them. I will also never forget the kindness, patience and love that Nanny gave to me. Nanny was an extraordinary woman and I am so fortunate to have known her.
Michele Krause Power
March 1, 2014
Linda, the story of your mom's life was in the paper this morning. It was a beautifully written story and brought back good memories from the fifties and sixties. Of course Camp Fire Girls and sleep overs...I remember a Progressive Dinner! And your bedroom upstairs. We go by your old house often and I think of you...and how nice your mom was.
Joy Morgan
February 28, 2014
I work at the Kenai Library and will surely miss Edna's regular visits, her sweet smile and wonderful laugh. I always looked forward to a chat with her about the latest books she was reading-and there were many. So many people come and go in our lives, but someone as special as Edna leaves lasting memories and will hold a unique place in my heart.
Diane Taylor
February 27, 2014
What an amazing, intelligent, and giving individual. I'm so grateful that our paths crossed during this time on earth. Grateful, as well, for the nurturing and teaching she gave to our son in his young years. She will be missed....
Diane Taylor (Kasilof, AK)
Jaci LeDoux
February 27, 2014
Never will I ever meet anyone like you. The void in my heart will never go away. Though I am comforted that I did have you in my life. We talked to each other on the phone almost every day. When the phone rings I will think of you. I am comforted now that I have Linda and Tom in my life. A wonderful connection to you. I can't put into words how much I loved you. Love, Jaci
February 27, 2014
Condolences to the family and friends. Please take comfort in God's words at Romans 8:35-39.
February 27, 2014
Just this past Christmas, our family gathered around the TV and watched the old tapes of Nanny's Christmas party complete with Santa Claus giving gifts to all of “Nanny” kids. We were reminded again of the true gift that Nanny gave to all of our children. Her wonderful love and kindness is still felt today. She was a wonderful person to many children in this community. She also was a Godsend to many parents. Our thoughts are with Nanny's family.
Jon Lillevik and JoAnn Hagen
Elaine & Mark Larson
February 26, 2014
Our family has very fond memories of our time at Nanny's House. We couldn't have asked for a better daycare/preschool for our daughters, Kjersta and Siri. We also loved spending time chatting with Edna and Johnny at the end of the day-such a rich time. Our condolences to the family.
Pat Springer-Hann
February 26, 2014
How fortunate I was to have known her kind and wise spirit! "Nanny" was incredibly patient with me and with my son, Nicholas. She always appeared to have time for me, although I think Nanny was ready to be done with her work day. I so value having known her. Thank you, Nanny, for your hours of counsel and friendship!
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5839 Kenai Spur Highway, Kenai, AK 99611
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