Obituary: Frank William Rasmusson

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.

Frank William Rasmusson

Frank W. Rasmusson, 82, of Joliet, IL departed peacefully in hospice with his family and friends by his side on September 22, 2025. He was born on September 11, 1943 in Joliet, to Gladys (Smith) Buck and Frank Buck, later adopted by Martel Rasmusson.

Frank graduated from Joliet Township High School with the class of 1962, focusing his education on his passion for electronics. After graduation Frank served in the army as a SP5 (Specialist E-5) for 3 years from 1964-1967. He was honorably discharged from the Army Reserves in 1969. During his time he served as an instructor at Fort Gordon for electronics. He was a member of the American Legion for 27 years and served on the board for more than 22 years.

After the Army, Frank was employed by Illinois Bell Telephone Company (also known as Ma Bell). While employed by Ma Bell he opened Frank's Electronics where he retired, on Jefferson Street, but remained active fixing radios and more from home until recently. Frank was also an active member of the Antique Radio Club of Illinois. He served as a proud Committeeman for his precinct in Lockport Township 21. At age 9 he took classes at Joliet Amateur Radio Society and after several years and many attempts he finally earned his FCC license allowing him to communicate via Morse Code with call sign KA9VPH.

Frank was proud of his grandfather William Smith who engineered the "Smith Bridge" in Channahon, IL as well as the Wilmington and Kankakee bridges. His grandfather was also the first Superintendent of Will County Highways.

Anyone who sat and talked with Frank would say he was a great historian with lots of stories to share.

He is survived by his four children, Mary White, Patrick Rasmusson, Frank Rasmusson Jr., and Lisa (Steve) Peters. He also had two step-children, Brian (Michelle) Nedelsky and Jason (Amanda) Nedelsky. He had several grandchildren, Cody Jerz, Connor Jerz, Ayden Swore, Brittani, Franklyn, and Brooke Batchelor, Emilee Bishop, James Bales, Paige and Alexis Nedelsky, and Camden and Jake Nedelsky.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife Lois (Nedelsky) Rasmusson and the mother of his children, Susan Guenther.

As it was Frank's request, cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of his life is being planned for his family at a later date.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500, or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.

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