James Wayne Rasmussen

Jimmy Wayne Rasmussen, 88, of Pendleton, Oregon, passed away peacefully at his home on March 23rd, 2024, with family members Tycin and Amy Rasmussen at his side.

Jim was born April 26, 1936, to parents Nels and Matilda Rasmussen in Spokane, Washington.  He was one of three children, older brother Nels Rasmussen, Jr., and sister Addie Nell Rasmussen, both deceased.  He spent his childhood growing up in Amboy, Washington, then went on to meet the love of his life, Donna Elaine Rasmussen, in Walla Walla, Washington, where they soon after got married at the Stateline Church in 1960.

They were happily married for 56 years until Donna passed away in 2019.  Even though a piece of Jim was missing after his wife passed away, he lived on with support and love of all of his family, including their two sons, James Wayne Rasmussen, 60, and Patrick Ray Rasmussen, 57.  He is survived by his two sons and six grandchildren, Benjamin Tycin, Timothy, Lauren, Zoe, Haley, and Lily, and nine great grandchildren.

Jim had the biggest heart and a smile that could light up a whole room.  He was a private and quiet person but also very witty and fun.  He was fearless and independent yet sensitive and incredibly compassionate.  Jim had many hobbies and interests including exercising, going for walks, and enjoying nature.  He loved Christian and country music, and most of all he enjoyed playing music.  He played the steel guitar and enjoyed the ukelele.  Jim also enjoyed traveling with his wife, Donna.  They went on many adventures together.  Above all Jim was a religious man.  He and his wife dedicated their lives to the Seventh Day Adventist church.