Lynette Kay Rasmussen

Lynette Kay Rasmussen, age 78, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. Born on June 16, 1947, in Stoughton, Wisconsin, she was the beloved daughter of Glenn and Arlene Rasmussen, who preceded her in death.

Lynette devoted her life to education, spending many years as a dedicated English teacher at Pecatonica High School. She cared deeply for her students—well beyond the classroom—and stayed in touch with many of them throughout her life, often reconnecting through Facebook and celebrating their milestones with genuine pride. A lifelong learner and avid reader, she found joy in books, spirited discussions, and sharing her love of literature with generations of young people.

She cherished her book club, her weekly Zoom gatherings with longtime friends and family, and any chance to attend the theater. Lynette also loved to travel and embraced every opportunity to explore new places. A card-game enthusiast at heart, she found delight in poker, horse and pepper, euchre, cribbage, and just about any card game placed in front of her. She was politically minded and could get into some interesting discussions about her party of choice and her points of view. The voting process was very important to her, and she volunteered for years at her neighborhood polling place.

She is survived by her stepchildren Adrian Tridel (wife, Debra Sperling; daughter, Logan Tridel), Elizabeth Vaughn (wife, Michelle Pesavento), and Chris Hare (sons, Mac Hare and Sam Vaughn); and by her siblings Karen Baumann, Randy Rasmussen (Cindy Jensen), Mark Rasmussen (Mary Cay Rasmussen), and Denise Karis (Richard Karis), as well as many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed Tridle; sister, Linda Rasmussen; and her brother-in-law, Joe Baumann.

Lynette will be remembered for her warmth, sharp wit, loyalty, and the deep devotion she held for her family and friends. Her generosity of spirit and the love she shared so freely will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

A memorial will be held at 11:00 AM on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Cress Funeral Home, 206 W. Prospect St., Stoughton, Wisconsin. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM and continue until the time of service, which will be followed by a light luncheon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of your choice.