Russell Lee Rasmussen

Russell Lee Rasmussen, ‘Rusty’ as he was known to nearly all who knew him, passed away suddenly on March 2, 2026. A devoted son, loving husband, father, beloved Papa & caring and compassionate friend to so many. The void felt by his absence has left us grieving for the times of life that were yet to be lived.

Born on November 14, 1963 to Ron & Nancy Rasmussen in Fresno, Rusty lived all of his life in Fresno & Clovis. He is survived by his father, Ron Rasmussen, his wife of 41 years, Patty Rasmussen, their children; Katie Dwyer & J.R., Kyle Rasmussen & Kendall, and grandchildren; Olivia & Kennedy Dwyer. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nancy and his brother, Robert.

Rusty’s childhood began in Fresno going to school, taking family trips to Hume Lake, hunting with his Dad & Grandpa, and making trips to watch racing with his Dad. During his Junior High days, the family moved to Clovis. Having a few acres to ride motorcycles, Rusty and his friends were what we would call “free-range kids” today. Stories abound about those days spent with friends making mischief & memories. Rusty’s teen years brought new hobbies as family motorcycle outings to the desert and the mountains were added in to boost the excitement. Then there was the transition to car racing - a love and passion that would fuel a good portion of the next 45 years. Racing brought new friends, family travel to more places near and far, and a love for speed. Success on the track followed as Rusty would climb the ladder from racing Micro-midgets, USAC midgets, Sprint cars and USAC Silver Crown cars. The 80’s were fun, fast & exciting.

Rusty and Patty were married in 1984. Katie arrived in 1989, Kyle in 1993 and life as a family of 4 ensued. Those days were full of joy, a busy home, and lots of love.

Cars became Rusty’s life’s work as he graduated high school and entered into his Dad’s business, Rasmussen Auto Repair. Beginning as a delivery driver, he then began to learn the trade beside seasoned and respected mechanics. Rusty learned and matured into a leader, running the business alongside his Dad for many years. It is a rare individual who can boast of having only one place of employment for their entire adult life but that was Rusty. A loyal, devoted, hardworking man whose purpose was to serve his customers, who more often than not would become his friends.

Behind that loyalty and devotion in his work was his faith. Accepting Christ at Hume Lake Christian Camp as a teen, his Christian walk guided him throughout life. He served at Mountain View Church in the Nursery, Children’s Ministry, and as a home group leader.

Racing re-entered the family’s life when Kyle finished college and declared that he wanted to start racing. Always the supporter of his children, Rusty helped Kyle. The family joined in and a new chapter of life at the track began. The theme was winning, but the real takeaway was time with family, having fun, and doing it together.

Great memories, wonderful and lasting friendships with a few life lessons sprinkled in are the reward for possessing passion in life. Rusty achieved those things. He lived his life with passion, sincerity, and respect for others. He loved his family and friends wholeheartedly. His presence is and will continue to be missed.

We love you, God speed and may the memory of his full and beautiful life provide solace to all in the days to come.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of these charities:

Mountain View Church - Missions

Hume Lake Christian Camps - Campership Fund

NARC (Northern Auto Racing Club) Benevolent Fund

or a charity of your choice

Services will be held Monday, March 16, 2026.

Graveside; 9:30 a.m., Clovis Cemetery, 305 N. Villa Ave. Clovis, 93612

Memorial Service: 11 a.m., Mountain View Church, 3600 N. Fowler Ave., Fresno, 93727