Fred “Gene” Rasmussen, 91, of Charles City

Fred “Gene” Rasmussen, 91, of Charles City, Iowa, passed away on April 10th, 2026, at his home after a courageous battle with leukemia.

A funeral service will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church in Charles City on Tuesday, April 28^th, 2026, at 11:00 am, with visitation one hour prior to the service. A luncheon will follow the service, and interment will be at Riverside Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Monday, April 27^th, 2026, at Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home in Charles City.

Gene was born on August 24,1934, in Scandia, Kansas, the only child of Charles and Mabel (Etter) Rasmussen. Seeking better opportunities during the Kansas Dust Bowl, the family moved to Iowa. Gene attended country schools in Orchard, Riceville, and Osage, ultimately graduating from Charles City High School in 1953. He cherished his memories of playing for the undefeated 1951 Championship Comets football team and took great pride in being an original member of the newly formed wrestling team.

Gene enlisted in the United States Navy, serving with distinction in the SeaBees from 1956 to 1958. As a member of the U.S.N. Mobile Construction Battalion 5, he was stationed in Adak, Alaska, and Midway Island. It was during these years in the construction battalion that he learned to operate a crane—a specialized skill that would prove invaluable throughout his life. These experiences allowed him to hone the technical expertise and rigorous work ethic that became the bedrock of his long and successful career in the trades.

Upon returning home, Gene worked at the Charles City Creamery before entering into a long and successful partnership with Leon Hall. Together, in 1961 they established Leon & Gene’s and ran their business successfully for 38 years until their retirement in 1999. This successful partnership provided vital services to the area, including their well-known wrecker and crane service. A master of his trade, numerous examples of Gene’s hard work and craftsmanship remain visible landmarks throughout North Iowa today. He was particularly proud of the numerous hours he dedicated to the revitalization of the Charles Theater alongside many fellow volunteers, ensuring its legacy for future generations.

A dedicated member of the community, Gene was a member of the Lions Club of Charles City, Charles City Elks Lodge #418, and Trinity United Methodist Church, where he found both fellowship and purpose in serving others.

On August 16, 1953, Gene married the love of his life, Beverly (Waller) Rasmussen. Their relationship was built on a foundation of young love in the 50s, and together they spent over five decades building a life defined by hard work and a deep devotion to family. Gene instilled a strong work ethic in his children, teaching them by example to treat everyone with respect and kindness.

True to his character, he rarely complained about his health, facing his illness with a dignity that inspired everyone around him. Whenever friends or family asked how he was feeling, his response was always the same, delivered with a sincere smile: “I’m feeling good.”

Whether he was leading the way on annual family vacations or finding peace on the water during fishing trips, Gene was happiest when surrounded by those he loved. He could often be found in the “woods” or putzing around in the barn on various wood working projects enjoying the quiet rewards of a job well done. In his downtime, he was a formidable card player, always ready for a game and a laugh. Gene and Beverly shared fifty-five years of devoted marriage. During Beverly’s battle with cancer, Gene never left her side, providing constant care and support until her passing in 2008.

In recent years, Gene was blessed with the companionship of his significant other, Georgena Miller. For 17 years, they enjoyed each other’s company, benefiting from their many trips together and the lasting friendships they formed along the way.

Nothing brought Gene more pride than watching his grandchildren follow in his footsteps. He took great joy in seeing his own passions mirrored in their lives—from his love of woodworking, fishing, and wrestling to his unique artistic ability. He was especially honored that his legacy of service continued with a grandson enlisting in the United States Navy, carrying on the tradition of the “Can Do” spirit.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Floyd County Hospital and St. Croix Hospice for their compassionate care. A special thank you also goes to the team at Happier at Home for the dedicated 24-hour care they provided, allowing Gene to remain in the comfort of his home.

Gene is survived by his children, Ken (Kim) Rasmussen, Mason City, IA; Kim (Russ) Rosenbaum, Nora Springs, IA; and Kay (Tony) Schmalen, Clear Lake, IA; his five grandchildren, Eric (Traci) Rosenbaum, St. Ansgar, IA, Jacob (Laura) Rasmussen, Toledo, Ohio, Amy (Andrew) Ruskusky, Apple Valley, MN, Ryan (Shelby) Schmalen, Osage, IA, and Bryce Schmalen, San Diego, CA; his four great-grandchildren, Corbin, Rhett, Scarlett, and Miles; and his significant other, Georgena Miller.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beverly; and his parents, Charles and Mabel Rasmussen.

Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, 1205 South Main Street, Charles City, Iowa 50616 is in charge of local arrangements.  Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall for the family at www.hauserfh.com.