Obituary: Marie Beecher Rasmussen

Marie Beecher Rasmussen 1916 ~ 2006 Marie Beecher Rasmussen, 89, passed from her earthly life on May 13, 2006, surrounded by her loving family, to join her eternal companion who died only 23 days earlier. Marie was born December 8, 1916, in Willard, Utah, to Maud Barker and Ransom Asa Beecher. She was the only daughter of six children. Her childhood years were spent on a farm in Brigham City where she learned the value of hard work - a quality she possessed until prohibited by her health in her late 80s. Marie attended Box Elder High School where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Don H. Rasmussen. They spent more than 71 years together before his passing on April 20, 2006. Together they enjoyed raising their two children. Marie unselfishly dedicated her life to her husband, children and grandchildren. Her family was truly her greatest joy. Marie's home was her art - both the inside and out were neat, clean, and beautifully manicured - yet, she welcomed the spots provided by her loving grandchildren. She adored her grandchildren and they adored her. Individual sleep-overs and special outings made each grandchild feel important and cherished. Marie served as an "always on call" mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was the heart of her family. With poise, love and grace, she assisted all in their endeavors. Her love and influence were felt daily by her family, extended family and friends. Always kind, proper, respectful and immaculate in her appearance, Marie was a true lady. As a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served in many positions, but her love of children was evidenced in her favorite ward calling as Primary teacher. She was able to influence many lives as she taught Primary into her 80s. Marie treasured the three wonderful years serving with her husband as he presided over the California Mission in Los Angeles from 1966-69. Her love of those young missionaries was a joy to her throughout her life. Marie will be especially missed by her children, Dee (Mary) Rasmussen, and Linda (Kay) Cornaby. She leaves nine grandchildren: Kevin, Bradley, Dana (Johnson) and Jared Rasmussen, and Alyse (Christensen), Derek, Tara (Perreca), Heather and Brandon Cornaby, and 17 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by her husband, Don, her parents and five brothers. Marie's family will honor her by celebrating her life at 12 noon, Thursday, May 18, 2006, Mt. Olympus North Stake Center, 4176 S. Adonis Dr. (3930 E.), Salt Lake City. Family and friends may call Wednesday, May 17, 6-8 p.m., Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Dr., and Thursday, 10:45-11:45 a.m. at the church. Interment, Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the loving care givers who served and comforted Marie in her final years. Our dear mother and grandmother will be greatly missed, but lovingly remembered.