David Orville Rasmussen

David Orville Rasmussen was born on December 31, 1948, to Orville and Doryce (Larson) Rasmussen in Hutchinson, Minnesota. The oldest of four boys, Dave graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1966.

A proud veteran, Dave joined the United States Air Force in 1967 and served until 1971. He was stationed at the Layes Air Force Base, Azores and Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Michigan.

Dave married his high school sweetheart, Susan Wendorff, on September 20th, 1969. After the Air Force, Dave and Sue moved to Brainerd, where their first daughter, Traci, was born. He worked at the Crow Wing Natural History Area from 1971 through 1974 while attending Brainerd Vocational School studying Forestry. Upon receiving his degree, they moved to Blackduck, MN where he worked for the State of Minnesota as a Forester.

In April of 1975, Dave became a Game Warden, proudly serving the people of the State of Minnesota until he retired in May of 2000. He was stationed in Blue Earth for just over a year and during that time, daughter Rebecca was born. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Detroit Lakes where Dave spent the remainder of his career. While living in Detroit Lakes, Dave and Sue welcomed daughter Stephanie.

In 1989, Dave published a book called You Can’t Catch ‘Em All, an autobiography sharing stories of life as a Game Warden, intertwined with family and friends along with a great love for the outdoors. He also loved studying family genealogy and had a great interest in airplanes.

Dave and Sue shared their many hobbies with their daughters including hunting, fishing, camping, music and playing games. As grandkids came along, these passions were passed on to the next generation.

After retirement, Dave started carving fish decoys, a curiosity that turned into a passion. He transformed garage space into a shop and spent many hours carving, painting and helping his grandkids create their own pieces of art. More than 5000 fish decoys are now displayed all over the world.

In retirement, Dave and Sue loved nothing more than spending time with their daughters, sons-in-law and watching their six grandchildren grow. They made wonderful memories with friends at home and on their many trips south, 19 winters spent together in Texas, Arizona, and everywhere in between.

Dave passed away peacefully on Monday, November 3rd, surrounded by his wife and daughters.

“In the world of art, no matter your definition – nothing should be beyond your imagination.” ~ Dave Rasmussen

Dave is survived by his wife, Susan and three daughters Traci (Dennis) Mace, Rebecca (Ryan) Esser and Stephanie (Jake) Lauritsen, his six grandchildren, Sydney and Garrett Mace, Ava Esser, Jason Jr, Reagan and Larsen Lauritsen, his three brothers Dan Rasmussen, Duane (Nancy) Rasmussen and Dean Rasmussen, as well as many extended family and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Doryce Rasmussen, his in-laws Lloyd and Irma Wendorff and other family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorials to be sent to: HIA Health (Hospice of the Red River Valley) 3800 56th Ave. S Fargo, ND 58104. Or donate online here: https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=373eaf.

SERVICES FOR DAVE WILL BE A PRIVATE FAMILY SERVICE.