John Wayne Rasmussen

The family invites you to a celebration of life on Saturday, December 18th at 1pm at Family Worship Center:

5001 W. Powell Blvd

Gresham, OR 97030

Military Honors will be at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland at a later date.

John Wayne Rasmussen entered eternal rest on November 30th 2021. John was born in North Bend, OR on April 27th 1958 to Buck and Ruth Rasmussen. He is survived by his wife, Linda, two daughters, Katie and Christy and their spouses, two grandchildren, Finn and Kindra, his mother, Ruth, his two siblings, Kathy and Ron and their families, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Buck.

At a very young age John’s family moved to Portland, OR. He graduated from Reynold’s High School in 1976. While in high school, John competed on the Lancer wresting team and served as student body president.

John met his future wife, Linda, when he was 12 years old, as their families were close friends. The two began dating in 1979 and were married on June 25th 1983. They raised their two beautiful daughters, Katie and Christy, in Gresham, OR. The family were members of Trinity Lutheran Church where he served as a handy member of the property committee.

John’s love of aircraft and all things mechanical led him to enlist in 1976 as an aircraft mechanic in the Oregon Air National Guard. During his 38-year military career he worked on F-101B, F-4C, and F-15A aircraft. His job took him around the world, including deployments to Tyndall Air Force Base for several William Tell Competitions. John reached the highest enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant in 2002. He then retired as the Quality Assurance Superintendent for the 142nd Maintenance Group, 142nd Fighter Wing, Oregon Air National Guard in 2014.

In 1996 John became involved at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville, OR. He oversaw the mounting of the F-15A across the street from the museum. He was also responsible for moving multiple aircraft to the museum, including the SR-71 Blackbird. John took great pride in educating others on the history of aviation and restoring museum aircraft and artifacts. In 2003 he started serving on the Museum Board and was elected President of the Board of Directors in 2014. His continued love of aviation provided him with the opportunity to volunteer annually at the Reno Air Races as a pylon judge.

In his precious free time, John enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, and working in his “Garage Mahal.” An excellent craftsman, John learned carpentry from his father, Buck. They worked together for a few years at Rasmussen Construction in Portland, OR and built the family cabin in Skamania, WA. John’s interest in antique cars and engines inspired him to join The Horseless Carriage Club and he continued to refine his machinist skills with his dear friend, Rob. Trains also sparked his interest and he spent many years volunteering on Portland’s 4449 Daylight Steam Locomotive.

John found no greater joy than serving others. It was well known that he cherished his friendships and family throughout his life. This devoted husband and father will also be remembered as a good listener, trusted mentor, and loyal friend. His wisdom, generosity, creativity, quick wit and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

Please post your loving comments and memories at www.batemancarrollfunerals.com as these will be extremely precious to Linda and the entire family.

Donations may be made to Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville and Trinity Lutheran Church in Gresham.