ROCHELLE — Russell LaVerne Rasmussen, 89, of Rochelle passed away at his home, Saturday, March 12. Russell was born March 26, 1932, in Lafayette Township, Illinois, the son of Henry C. and Ella (Bolhaus) Rasmussen. Russell married Velma Bernice Pifer, April 27, 1957 at the Rochelle United Methodist Church. Russell worked for many years as a printer for Rochelle Printing.  

Russell was preceded in death by five brothers: Roger, Dale, William, Marvin and Harlan Rasmussen; two sisters: Betty Parsley and Eula Fay Friday.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Velma Rasmussen of Rochelle; two children: Steve Rasmussen of Rochelle and Beverly (Larry) Moore of Rockford; four grandchildren: Emily Brown, Ashley (Brendan Mckelvey) Rasmussen, Allison (Josiah) Vander Heyden and Patrick Moore; great grandchildren: Haylie, Milaena, Everett and Desmond; one sister: Darlene Stratton of Warrenville, Illinois.

Public visitation will be 9:30-11 a.m. Friday, March 18 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle. Funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with pastor David Rogula officiating. Burial will follow at Lawnridge Cemetery in Rochelle. Memorials can be made to Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon. Visit www.ungerhorner.com for online guestbook and video tribute.