Oliver V. Rasmussen
1930 - 2024
Oliver passed away 09 Feb 2024 at the age of 93. His life began 06 Oct 1930. Born to parents Clifford and Alvira (Jensen) Rasmussen in Centerfield, UT.
Oliver showed what was to become an enduring and undefeatable spirit of pure determination, strength, and grit at a young age when he overcame the effects of Meningitis and Polio leaving him unable to walk for over a year. And later in life, an eye disease that would slowly rob him of his vision.
Almost as soon as he turned 18, he was drafted to serve his country in the Korean War, serving in the 73rd Transportation Truck Co., and was awarded three Bronze Stars during his time in service.
Soon after his discharge he met Arnelda Baum, the only woman he would ever deeply love and cherish for the rest of his days. They were both able to gain employment and retire from Dugway Proving Grounds where he worked in Maintenance and Housing Divisions.
They started their family immediately, bringing three children into the world, Starla, Rick, and Pennie. He was a very fair, fun and hands on father who did the best he could to provide for them and teach them to be honest, hardworking, and fun loving.
After they retired from Dugway, they worked for Utah State Parks and Recreation as Camp Host at Strawberry Reservoir and Deer Creek for many summers, especially enjoying when their kids and grandkids would come to visit. Afterwards, they made Provo, Utah their final home.
Oliver was preceded in death by his parents; sister Darlene (Vern) Olsen; wife Arnela (Baum) Rasmussen and daughter Starla Kay Rasmussen.
Survived by: son Rick (Stephanie) Rasmussen and daughter Pennie (Gordon) Fitzwater; grandchildren Robert Oliver (Stacey) Pagnani, Nick (Holly) Pagnani and Kaytlin (Mike) Butler; Cori (Levi) Rasmussen Fincher, Dillon Rasmussen, Ivan (Jozlyn) Fitzwater and 12 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 16, 2024 at the Berg Drawing Room Chapel, 185 East Center Street, Provo, Utah. The family will receive friends from 9:30-10:45 a.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Timpanogos Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 1000 North 400 East, Orem, Utah. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bergmortuary.com.
A luncheon will follow at the LDS Church located at 2225 West 620 North, Provo, Utah 84601.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the National Federation of the Blind.