James Earle Rasmussen - Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel

March 3, 1948 - June 11, 2020


James Earle Rasmussen
"Jim"

Age 72, of Richfield, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on June 11, 2020, at his lake home in Aitkin, MN. A retired electrical engineer from General Electric, long time President of the Hennepin Overland Railway Historical Society. Survived by loving wife, Roma Lee Rasmussen; sons, Corey (Jenn) Rasmussen and Christopher (Heidi) Rasmussen; grandchildren, Carson Scott, Emma Rasmussen, and Amelia Rasmussen; brother, Frank (Connie) Rasmussen; numerous relatives and friends. Preceded in death by parents, Harold and Dorothy Rasmussen.

Visitation 4-7 PM on Wednesday, June 24, at Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel, 6527 Portland Ave. S., Richfield.

Due to the current COVID-19 guidelines, a private Mass of Christian Burial will be via Zoom on Thursday, June 25, at 1:00 PM.
Jim Rasmussen Mass of Christian Burial

Interment Lakewood Cemetery.

Memorials preferred to Hennepin Overland Railway Historical Society or St. Richard’s Catholic Church.


13 Comments

  1. JoAnn - Gary Braasch’s daughter says:

    I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. As a child I have so many fond memories of him. He was always busy doing something at the club…under a table, working in the back corner, and always so pleasant to talk to. Our thoughts are with all of you during this difficult time.

  2. Barbara Roban says:

    Oh my goodness. I met with your dad at the HO building hoping to locate my husband, (John Roban’s) vest with all the train decals, for his prayer service Today 6/13/2020. Two loving, dedicated men. Model railroading meant so much to both of them! I send my prayers to you and your family.

  3. Jason Boche says:

    My sincere condolences to the Rasmussen family and friends. I was shocked and saddened when I heard of Jim’s passing. Each morning my first thought is that it was just a bad dream, far from it – it was God’s plan. Jim gave so much to the HO Historical Society. I’m going to miss him and his leadership dearly. May God embrace Jim with all of his love, as well as his family, and his friends.

  4. Erik Amundson says:

    I know Jim for years as the father of two of my best friend – Corey and Chris. His death is absolutely a shock. He was always one of the coolest, smartest, most fun guys I’ve ever known. As a person who grew up largely without a present father figure, I always enjoyed Jim any time I was around him. Every time Jim was in the room you could feel his presence, a confident father, a loving husband, and even a jokester to his kids’ friends!

    You will be missed Jim.

  5. Matt Fawley says:

    I met Jim before I even have any memories in life. Being best friends with Chris and Corey growing up a few blocks away I think I spent almost as much time at their house as I did my own at times. I am fortunate to have a great dad but Jim was like a second dad to me spending so much time at their house. Our families friendship grew into more of being each others family than just friends, and I view the Rasmussen’s as my family. Jim will be missed dearly.

  6. Dave Delzer says:

    We are sad and certainly surprised to hear that Jim Rasmussen has passed away. His sons Corey and Chris are special friends of my sons James and Justin. James and his family will not be able to visit from China this year but I will pass the word to him. Linda is on her way to Idaho to visit her daughter and our newborn grandson but I will come to the visitation if I can. We are so sorry. Jim will be missed so much.

  7. Karen Droegemueller says:

    Roma Lee and family,
    We too are very sad to hear of Jim ‘s death. Comfort each other as we know you will.
    We’re planning to see you Wednesday.
    Peace
    Karen and Ford

  8. Karen, Shawn and Stephanie says:

    My sincere condolences to all of the families affected by Jim’s sudden passing. Our prayers are with you all. To all families, take good care and stay safe.

  9. Jeena, Nathan & Erika says:

    Roma and family so sorry to hear about Jim. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Blessed be his memory.

  10. Ben Cantlon says:

    Dear Roma Lee,

    Kristin, Ava, Willa, and I were thinking fondly of you tonight. We looked you up online and saw that Jim has passed on.

    We are so sorry for your loss, and we trust you know that thousands of former students and their families think about you and cherish you.

    Peace be with you,
    Ben

  11. Diane Colonga says:

    I just learned of Jim’s passing late this afternoon when our mail arrived so I was unable to attend the Zoom service, or I would have been there. Amy (went to school with Corey) sends her regards. It was such a surprise and I am so sad to hear the news. Roma Lee, you always had such a smile on your face and sparkle in your eyes when you talked about Jim. People could always see how much love you both had and love seemed to grow so much stronger over the years. You spoke with happiness in your voice and I could always tell that Jim was the Love of your life and your best friend. You raised a wonderful family and found so much joy in your grandchildren. Both of your hearts were always so full of love. You shared so much about trains that I still think of Jim when I see a model train or when we go to the train museum. He had so many talents. Your faith is always an inspiration to others and is within you and others, during this sad and difficult time. Keep your joyful memories close in your heart. God Bless you and your family. Angels in Heaven Guide your path ahead. Lots of Love

  12. Diane Colonga says:

    I just learned of Jim’s passing late this afternoon when our mail arrived so I was unable to attend the Zoom service, or I would have been there. Amy (went to school with Corey) sends her regards. It was such a surprise and I am so sad to hear the news. Roma Lee, you always had such a smile on your face and sparkle in your eyes when you talked about Jim. People could always see how much love you both had and love seemed to grow so much stronger over the years. You spoke with happiness in your voice and I could always tell that Jim was the Love of your life and your best friend. You raised a wonderful family and found so much joy in your grandchildren. You shared so much about trains that I still think of Jim when I see a model train or when we go to the train museum. He had so many talents. Your faith is always an inspiration to others and is within you and others, during this sad and difficult time. Keep your joyful memories close in your heart. God Bless you and your family. Angels in Heaven Guide your path ahead. Lots of Love

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