Richard William Rasmussen

Richard William Rasmussen was born to William and Frances Rasmussen on July 7, 1932, in Elderwood, California. He passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, at 92.

Richard attended Elderwood Elementary School and Woodlake High School. In 1952, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Richard served with honor from 1952 to 1956, deploying on various ships during the Korean War. After his active service, he continued to serve in the Navy Reserve until 1960.

On March 18, 1967, Richard married Sandra Shepherd, and together they built a life filled with love, family, and shared memories.

Richard worked for the California Division of Forestry for over 30 years. As a Fire Captain, he served with dedication and pride forming many deep friendships with other firemen. After retiring, he spent many hours in his woodshop creating beautiful crosses, picture frames, and furniture crafted only from pictures or descriptions. Family and friends cherish these pieces. Richard loved hunting, cutting wood, and later bird watching outdoors. He spent much of his time farming the family farm's alfalfa, prunes, and oats. For years, he found joy in walking the ranch with his loyal dogs by his side.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Frances Rasmussen; his brothers, Michael and David Rasmussen; his much-loved wife, Sandra Rasmussen; and his granddaughter, Kailey Chan.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Chan; son, Bill Rasmussen; daughter-in-law, Angela; and his granddaughters, Ashley and Emily. He will be fondly remembered for his contagious laugh, generosity, and stories of years past which he shared with all who knew him.

Services in care of Hadley Marcom Funeral Chapel