James R. Rasmussen, 83, of Austin, died Thursday, May 21, 2009 at his home.
 Jim was born Oct. 8, 1925 in Stephen, Minn. to Lawrence and Agnes (Torgerson) Rasmussen. He attained the rank of Eagle Scout in his youth. Jim attended school in Stephen and graduated in 1943. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving his time in the South Pacific and Alaska. After his time in service, he attended Bemidji State and later moved to Carroll, Iowa to work as a clothing and furniture salesman.
On Feb. 6, 1950, Jim was united in marriage to Delores Ramaekers at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Carroll, Iowa. They made their home for a short time in Carroll then moved to Marshalltown in 1958. Jim worked at McGregor Furniture. In 1960 the move was made to Austin, where they remained. Jim worked for Meier Wolf Furniture East Side store.
He was a member of the VFW, Oil, Chemical and Atomic workers union and the Moose Lodge. He was commander of the VFW from 1967 to 1968 and was a lifetime member. Jim was also a member of the American Legion.   
Survivors include his wife, Delores, Austin; nine children, Scott, Austin, Ted, Austin, Peter, Tabor City, N.C., Mary (Roger) Larson, Austin, Joseph (Nancy) Lakeville, Jane (Bruce) Beery, Savage, Patrick, Rochester, Judy (Dale Spitzer), Rochester, Elizabeth (Sean Miland), Austin; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nephews and niece, Donnie Carl, Roseau, Peggy and Gib Ziemer, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Audry Carl.
A memorial mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2009 at St. Augustine Catholic Church with Father Joe Fogal officiating. The family will greet friends at a luncheon following the service at the church. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Military rites will be by American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216. Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.