Russell Rasmusson

Russell Roger Rasmusson returned to live with his Heavenly Father on November 8, 2026. He was greeted by his father, mother, grandparents and brother Kevin.

Russell was born on April 3, 1948, in Logan, Utah, to Roger James Rasmusson and Patricia D'On Justesen. He spent his childhood years living in Circleville, Gunnison, Centerfield, Ephraim, and Panguitch, Utah. He worked with his father on the farm hauling hay, caring for livestock and herding sheep. He spent some summers on Panguitch Mountain riding his horse and watching the sheep. He graduated from Panguitch High school in 1966. Following high school, he served an LDS mission in the Central Atlantic States. After his mission he was drafted to serve in the Army for deployment to Vietnam. At the last moment he was sent to Germany and spent his time in the Army as a parts clerk.

After his service he returned to Fillmore, Utah where his family was living and later moved to Beaver, Utah. He worked at the Cache Valley Dairy in Beaver making cheese for over 37 years.

He married Rebecca Shumway on March 15, 1985 in St. George, Utah. They were later sealed in the Manti Temple.

Russell and Rebecca lived in Beaver, Utah from 1985 until 1998. During that time Mindy Joy and Spencer James joined their family.

Russell and his family moved to Parowan, Utah in August 1998 and he spent many happy years in Parowan raising his family, being involved in community and following his children in their sports and school activities.

Russell loved sports, especially high school and college football. He spent many happy days attending his daughter's softball games and his son's soccer games. Many times he would stand on the opposing team's side and listen to them talk about the pitcher (his daughter) who was striking out their batters. He wouldn't confess that he was spying on the opposing team but got a big kick out of doing that.

Russell had many opportunities to travel with his children and wife. One of his last trips was a cruise through the Panama Canal. He adored his time on that trip. In spite of the blistering heat, he stood on the front of the ship so he could witness the entire transit through the canal.

Russell's favorite role was as a grandparent. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and was so happy to walk the sidelines and watch his grandsons play football.

He is survived by his siblings Creta (Brian), Beven, Patrea (Doug), Bettina, and Ryan (Jennifer).

His children Mindy (Ali) and Spencer (Vanessa) will deeply miss him. His grandchildren McKay, Kalena, Abdi, Amira, Zaina, Duro, Madina, Layla, Abu, Robby, and RJ (Mindy, Ali) will miss his shoulder rides and throwing the baseball and football with him. Rosalie and Jasper (Spencer) will miss his playfulness and funny faces.

Graveside Services for Russell will be held Friday, November 13, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the Parowan Cemetery. A viewing will be held prior to the service in the Parowan, Utah, LDS Chapel (59 S. 100 W) from 11:00 – 12:30 pm. Services are under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary. To share online condolences, please visit www.mortuary.org.