Donald C. Rasmussen

Published in the News Tribune (Tacoma) from 1/25/2009 - 1/28/2009

Don left this world and entered Heaven surrounded by his family on January 19th 2009. He was born May 15th, 1932 to Ann and Carl Rasmussen.

"Soupy", as his friends liked to call him, grew up in the Tacoma area where he spent most of his life. He graduated from Stadium High School and the College of Puget Sound.

While in college he was active in baseball, football, ice hockey, the R.O.T.C. program and was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity.

Don played baseball for the Chicago White Sox organization before entering active duty. He earned his pilot's wings in the Air Force and pursued a career in aviation as a commercial pilot. Don retired, from what is now Northwest Airlines, with the rank of Captain.

Don leaves behind his loving wife of 49 years, Ruth; his two children, Douglas (Jeanine) Rasmussen of Tucson, AZ and Melinda (John) Dionas of Gig Harbor, WA; his seven grandchildren: Anna, Melaina, Krista, Nick, Nate, Joe and Jake; his Uncle Mel, and numerous family members and friends.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on January 31st, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. in the Haven of Rest Chapel with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 192 Nickerson Street, Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98109, or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Haven of Rest, Gig Harbor.