Obituary: Don Hans Rasmussen

Don Hans Rasmussen 1916 ~ 2006 Don Hans Rasmussen, 90, left this earthly life, loved by his family, to be reunited with his mother who passed away when he was only two. Don was born to Cleo Jensen and Martin Rasmussen February 5, 1916 in Brigham City, Utah. He was raised in Mantua, Utah by his father, grandparents, siblings, aunts, and cousins. He graduated from Box Elder High School, where he excelled in team sports. Don married his high school sweetheart, Marie Beecher, and she has been beside him more than seven decades. Hired by Kennecott Copper to play semi-pro baseball for their Magna-Garfield team, Don was given a welding position. Through hard work, schooling, and determination, he became a master welder. He was hired by Eutectic Welding Alloys to manage their welding products, and later became their Western States Sales Manager and assistant to the president. Brigham City's Jr. Chamber of Commerce named him the 1948 "Outstanding Young Man." In 1954, he managed, then purchased, a heating and air conditioning company which he renamed DHRCO. Don will be remembered for his unwavering faith and testimony of Jesus Christ. His many church callings included General Church Home Teaching Committee, International President of Sigma Gamma Chi, Mission Representative (South and Puerto Rico), and a Salt Lake Temple sealer for 20 years. A highlight of his life was the treasured missionaries he served and loved as he, with his wife at his side, presided over the California Mission in Los Angeles from 1966-69. Though Don was a good golfer, wonderful storyteller, creative thinker, and prolific writer (focusing on gospel principles), his real passion was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, supporting all in their endeavors. Don's positive attitude, huge dimpled smile, humor, and friendliness gave him the ability to make a friend out of any stranger and enrich the lives of all. Don is survived by his wife, Marie; children and spouses, Dee (Mary) Rasmussen, Linda (Kay) Cornaby; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and sister, Irma Zundel. Preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers. We will celebrate his wonderful life at 12 noon, Tues., April 25, 2006, Mt. Olympus N. Stake, 4176 S. Adonis Dr. (3930 E.), Salt Lake. Family and friends may call Mon., April 24, 5:30-8 p.m., Wasatch Lawn, 3401 S. Highland Drive, and Tues., from 10:45-11:45 a.m. at the church. Interment, Wasatch Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Perpetual Education Fund. To those involved in his care, we thank you for your compassion and for helping us maintain his dignity. He left a divine legacy of love and service. He died as he lived - a true gentleman.