COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS/MIDVALE- Ellanor LaRae Jenkins Rasmussen, 91, our beloved wife, mom, grandma and great grandma, passed away at her home on January 26, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was born July 1, 1931 to Elton LeRoy and Ellanor Silcox Jenkins in the Salt Lake County Hospital. She had blonde hair and green eyes just like her father. She was raised in Midvale, Utah by her loving parents. She knew the spirit of God was in their home because there was so much love. She graduated from Jordan High School and then attended (as Rod would
say) the best university in the state, the University of Utah. She married the love of her life, Rodney Sinclair Rasmussen on April 30, 1952 in Midvale. He was her best friend, her hero and her partner until his passing, September 11, 2002. They were inseparable for more than 50 years. A quote from mom, “I guess just being with Rod makes everything beautiful!” She was surrounded by love her entire life.
Rodney and LaRae had four children: Rodney Scott Rasmussen – Highland, Utah; Cory Sinclair Rasmussen – Sandy, Utah; Susan Rasmussen Martinez – Redlands, California; and Joane Rasmussen Nelson – Heber, Utah. She later welcomed: Scott’s wife, Cheryl Christensen; Cory’s late wife Terrie Nelson and later Leslee Henson; Susan’s husband, Jeff Martinez; and Joane’s husband Gordon Nelson. Her family was her greatest treasure.
She was blessed with 21 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Every one of them was special and if you asked her, they were all “perfect”.
Grandchildren: Ryan (Amy) Rasmussen, Erin (Ryan) Hudman, David (Carrie) Rasmussen, Lindsey (Jeremy) Christensen, Chase (Tristen) Rasmussen, Jacy (Scott) Mortensen, Adam (Cherry Paler) Rasmussen, Robert Rasmussen, Ashley (Chris) Crays, J.J. (Alison) Martinez and Whitney (Francisco Corona) Martinez. Great Grandchildren: Remington, Coleton, Gage, Denali, Zachary, Cash, Judah, Silas, Alvie, Tanna, Addy, Ledger, Cayden, Taylor, Jack, Ellie, Rodney and Raemond. They brought love and excitement to her life every day.
LaRae worked and built Rodon Foods with her husband Rod and sons, Cory and Scott. Even though she was a successful business owner, she still listed her profession as a wife and mother. She was active in the community and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She was accomplished in cooking, skiing, was a beautiful seamstress and a talented artist. She was hired by Auerbach’s as one of their top models. As a
mother, she was our biggest cheerleader. She never missed a performance or sporting event and if one of her children (or grandchildren or even great grandchildren) were involved, she and Rod were there.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Rodney; her two sisters, Georgia (Dean) Hintze and Leah Crossgrove, and her daughter-in-law, Terrie Rasmussen. She is survived by her children, their spouses, her grandchildren and her great grandchildren, one brother, Douglas and his wife Carol Lee Jenkins.
A huge thank you to aunts, uncles, cousins and friends that brought joy into her life. A special thank you to Connie Brinton, Margo Ward, Wendy Morgan and the entire Union 1st Ward and to the special people of Dignity Hospice, who helped make it possible for her to live comfortably in her own home.
In LaRae’s words, “In lieu of flowers, please take your family to dinner!!!”
Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, February 4, 2023 at the Union 1st Ward, 1535 East Creek Road. Friends may call Friday evening from 6 - 8 pm at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, UT. A viewing will also be held from 11:30am -12:30pm prior to the services at the church. To watch the recorded services online, please click on the blue "Watch Services" button above. The services will remain online for 30 days from the date of services.
LaRae found something wonderful in each day. She will truly be missed forever.
LaRae was the best neighbor and friend my grandma could’ve asked for. I hope she rests well in heaven.
Sending our love to LaRae’s big family. We were blessed to be loved with open arms by LaRae. Lucky we were able to spend time together this fall and to hear some of her favorite stories. What an amazing woman, truly an inspiration !
XO Lauren Cohn Sarabia and Patrick Sarabia
What a joy it was to know LaRae - the first person to welcome me into the neighborhood, and become a beautiful friend. We will all miss her so much. My heart goes out to her children and grandchildren. She loved them all so much, and was so proud to talk about them. My children loved her like a grandmother too. I am so sad that I will be out of town on Saturday and will miss her celebration - but Hayley will be there to represent the family. What a lovely life to celebrate.
Rasmussen Family, I'm so sorry for your loss. I've had the privilege to know LaRae for 30 plus years and she was an Angel on earth. One of the sweetest ladies that I've had the fortune to know and love. When I think of LaRae, love and kindness comes to mind as that is what she was. I'll miss her dearly.
Susan and family,
I’m so sorry for your loss of your mom. I’m thinking of you all at this difficult time.
Patty
So sorry to read of LaRae's passing. She was a very kind and loving person. I am truly blessed to have known her.
Dearest Rasmussen Friends,
LaRae’s passing took me so by surprise. I thought she would last forever as a beacon Of beauty, grace and friendship. I have never known a more gracious host or guest.. LaRae made people feel special-especially her kids-she loved and doted on you all. So glad you “adopted” Marcia so she get in the extra La Rae (and Joane)
loving. Much love and comfort to you all while LaRae and Rod hold a second Honeymoon. Love to all Sheila Page
Sending condolences, thoughts and prayers for the family. LaRae was always a joy to be around and will be dearly missed.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Rasmussen Family.
LaRae was a true blessing to this world in every way. Her kindness, warm smile, positive and loving nature was a pleasure to behold. The memories of a life well lived and her legacy, will always be cherished.