Dale (“Jerry”, “Riley”) Jerome Rasmussen 82, of Merrill, passed away on April 4, 2022,under the care of family, and hospice at Pine Crest Nursing Home(Special Care). Dale was born on August 27, 1939, in Green Bay, son of the late Charles and Georgia (Arnett) Rasmussen. Jerry grew up in the Pine River area of Merrill and graduated from Merrill Highschool in 1957. He married his high school sweetheart (and neighbor girl) Audrey Karau October 8, 1960. Jerry served in the US Army during the Berlin Crisis. After his service, Jerry worked at Brokaw Paper Mill for 37 years until his retirement. He enjoyed the friendships of his co-workers and his time there. Jerry and Audrey owned a farm right down the road from where they both grew up. He enjoyed raising beef cattle, horses, and chickens. Jerry appreciated visiting with family and neighbors and sharing farming equipment and stories. He was a wonderful father and grandfather and incredibly supportive of his children’s, grandchildren’s, and foster children’s many activities and interests. Upon retirement, Audrey and Jerry spent winters in Kearny, Arizona. He enjoyed the warm weather, golf, and the companionship of many friends in their park and surrounding area. His grandchildren grew up in Merrill and spent a lot of time at “the farm” where they learned to hunt, fish, care for animals, and love the land they grew up on. He enjoyed fishing for trout in the Pine River that flows through their land, working in the woods and was proud of their pond where the family spent many happy hours picnicking, swimming, and enjoying campfires. Dale was a quiet and hardworking man, anyone who knew him was touched by his mild temperament, humor, and kindness. He will be missed.
Dale is survived by his wife of 61 years, Audrey; two children, Dale (Christy) Rasmussen and Dorinda (Boyd) Gustke; four grandchildren James Riley Rasmussen, Cole J. (Cidney) Gustke, Benjamin Dale Rasmussen, and Ally J. Gustke. Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Georgia Rasmussen; two sisters Jane & Phyllis; and brother, Leslie.
The Family would like to thank Good Samaritan ER/Hospital-Merrill and Pine Crest Nursing Home and staff for the wonderful care they gave “Jerry” in recent months. A private memorial service will be held. Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill, is assisting the family. The family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin at www.alzwisc.org Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com