Robert “Ras” Rasmussen, 66, of Fort Dodge, died on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021, at home surrounded by family. A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 12, at Grace Lutheran Church in Fort Dodge. Inurnment will be at North Lawn Cemetery in Fort Dodge. Gunderson Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting with the arrangements.

Robert Rasmussen was born on April 18, 1955, to Otto and Lorraine (Anderson) Rasmussen in Volga, S.D. Robert graduated from South Dakota State with a bachelor’s degree in Economics.

Robert was united in marriage to Joi Annette Bangston on May 10, 1986. The couple made their home and raised their family in Fort Dodge. Robert worked for the Department of Revenue as a tax agent until his retirement in 2014. He and Joi had many happy years together until her passing on Jan. 6, 2019.

Ras was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, the Tennis Association for 25 years and the Softball League. He enjoyed fishing with his buddies. He was a huge fan of the Raiders, the Minnesota Twins and the SDSU Jackrabbits. Ras was a proud father and grandpa, and he loved spending quality time with his family and dogs.

Robert is survived by his children: Jill Rasmussen, of Fort Dodge; Brian (Rebecca) Rasmussen, of Charlottesville, Va.; and Emily (Tanner) Bowhay, of Filley, Neb.; his siblings: Janelle, Deanna, Larry (Connie) and Nancy; four grandchildren: Sunday, Tillman, Madison and Emmet; and his loyal lab, Cooper.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Joi; and his parents, Otto and Lorraine.