Gary Rasmussen

GARY WAYNE RASMUSSEN Gary Wayne Rasmussen, 80, of International Falls, Minnesota peacefully passed away on September 26, surrounded by his family. Gary was born August 7, 1945, in Spooner Township to Everett and Blanche (Solo) Rasmussen where he was raised on the Rasmussen family farm in Manitou along with his siblings. It was there that Gary adopted a notable work ethic that would help define him for years to come. Along with the daily tasks of the farm, Gary attended the Indus High School in which he graduated from in 1963. While attending school, he played ice hockey for the Indus Trojans that led to a stint with the Indus Eagles Senior division hockey team. It was also during this time that he met a cute, brown-eyed girl by the name of Deanna Selberg. After a two-year courtship, the two married on September 24, 1966. They lived briefly in Chisholm, Minnesota where Gary worked for Koons Pavement and Construction. In 1974, "Rasmussen Logging" came to life with his father, Everett and his brother, Terry. Pelland Junction was where the family business would plant its roots for the next fifty years. It was also there that Gary and Deanna would raise two children and one grandson. Gary, also known as "Chief", held many in the logging community close to his heart. Always willing to lend a helping hand when needed. He was instrumental in the formation of the Associated Contract Loggers and Truckers of Minnesota. Gary was the 2021 ACLT Guest of Honor in which they noted his lifelong commitment, integrity, and work ethic that is required to be successful in the timber industry. His perseverance was also noted, allowing him to overcome challenges in his career that earned him the respect of many in the logging industry. Gary was known for his outspoken demeanor and would often share his opinion on many issues; especially those associated with the logging community. Whether it be shared with the 5:30 a.m. coffee crew at the Y-Knot, or with the gals at Mannco trucking, all discussions would end with a chuckle and a warm smile. While the logging business encompassed a lot of his time, the true love of his life was his family, of which he was the cornerstone. He loved it when the family was together. Whether it be sharing a meal, working in the flower or vegetable gardens or barbequing at the cabin in Loman or Lake of the Woods. Gary loved life and made so many memories along the way. He held many titles, but none more important than son, brother, husband, Dad, Fof, Grandpa, Papa and friend. Gary will be greatly missed, but his spirit will live on in many of us. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Deanna Rasmussen; parents, Everett and Blanche Rasmussen; stepmothers, Maxine Rasmussen and Harriet Rasmussen; brothers, Everett Jr., Gene, Jerry, Terry Rasmussen and sister Linda Dobbs; mother and father-in-law, Pete and Gretchen Morgan; and sister-in-law, Diane Rasmussen. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his son, Stacy (Kelly) Rasmussen; daughter, Sherri (Gary) Mannausau; grandchildren, Adam (Emily), Riley, Logan, Camryn Rasmussen, Adrion and Shay Mannausau; great-grandchildren, Waylon, Clayton and Eleanor Rasmussen; sister, Sheila Rasmussen-Hoke; brothers-in-law, Eural Dobbs, Jerry (Bonnie) Selberg, Von (Kris) Morgan; sisters-in-law, Joyce Rasmussen, Brenda Rasmussen, Louise Rasmussen, Gleora (Jerry) Palm, and numerous nephews and nieces. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM the Riverside Cemetery in Loman, MN. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held at The Junction from 12:00 PM 3:00 PM. The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the care providers and caregivers that helped look after Gary over the years. All of you meant a lot to him and we are very grateful. Condolences may be left on www.greenlarsen.com Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary, Inc.