Raymond Everett 'Ray' Rasmussen, 69

Raymond Everett "Ray" Rasmussen, 69, passed away April 18, 2007, of natural causes in Kalispell.

He was born Dec. 28, 1937, to Herman Rasmussen and Dolly Dern. He was raised and educated in Kalispell, graduating from Flathead County High School.

In 1966, Ray married Illa Mae Robinson in Kalispell.

He worked at Plum Creek until he was injured, also at Coast to Coast. He also did small-engine repair in Whitefish, and worked part-time at the race track, mostly as a hobby.

Ray's hobbies included gemstone cutting and jewelry making; and knife making, some of which were featured in the knife makers' guild; quilting and making wildlife quilts; as well as cooking.

He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, and NASCAR.

Ray was a member of the Eagles.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Ray is survived by his wife of 40-plus years, Illa Mae, of Kalispell; two sons, George Rasmussen, and Monty and wife, Patti McIlhargey; two daughters, Linda Rasmussen, and Cindy and husband, Tom Stevens, all of Kalispell; as well as nine grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 21, at Kalispell Christian Church, 1075 Foy's Lake Road. A reception and potluck will be afterward.