Elaine K. Rasmussen

– Elaine K Rasmussen, 67, passed away on Sunday, March 6, 2016, at Community Medical Center in the arms of her husband Robert Rasmussen and surrounded by friends. She was born on April 11, 1948, in Hamilton to Francis and Clayton "Dude" Thomas.

When Elaine was 3, the family moved from the Bitterroot Valley to Missoula's Northside. She had many fond memories growing up there. One in particular was the countless hours spent climbing and exploring Waterworks Hill with her sister and friends before the interstate was built.

Elaine attended Whittier Grade School and Hellgate High School. Enjoying school, she was a four-year member of the Honor Society graduating in 1966. She graduated from Airline Stewardess School in 1967 but decided Montana was where she wanted to be with both feet on the ground.

Returning to Missoula, Elaine worked at the Florence Hotel, then as a receptionist at Doctor Turmer's clinic. Later she worked as a ophthalmic technician for Doctor Overland and Rocky Mountain Eye retiring in 2012.

Elaine loved the outdoors enjoying downhill skiing, canoeing, hiking, camping especially late night camp fires. She started snow shoeing with her husband in the last few years, which she enjoyed immensely. She loved the brilliance of the stars unhindered by the city lights at night while camping.

On Oct. 17, 1974, Elaine married the love of her life, Robert Rasmussen. They had 42 years of love, laughter, memories and being best friends, which all ended much too soon.

Elaine was proud to be a Jehovah's Witness and felt blessed to be able to share her faith with friends and strangers. Her smile, humor and love will be dearly missed by her husband and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Clayton and a sister Yvonne.

Bob and Elaine would like to thank the Witnesses, family and friends for their compassion and support in her last days. Words are hardly sufficient to express our gratitude.

A memorial will be held Saturday, March 26, at 3 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall located at 115 Reserve St., Missoula. A reception will be held immediately afterward at the Guest House Inn at 3803 Brook St.

In lieu of flowers, consider donations to Cancer Research, Shriners Hospitals for Children or a charity of your choice.


Read Elaine Rasmussen's Obituary and Guestbook on www.missoulafuneralhomes.com.