John A. Rasmussen

John A. Rasmussen of Shoreline, WA died February 3, 2026 at the age of 76. Paula, his wife of 54 years, was at his side. He fought multiple cancers courageously for 3 years with the help of professionals at Fred Hutch and UW Medical Center, but ultimately lost the battle.

John was born in Seattle in 1949, to Isobel (Grann) and John F. Rasmussen, and attended public schools in the city. He earned his B.A. in Economics at Carleton College in Minnesota. John spent his Junior year at Lancaster University in England, an experience that ignited his life-long love for travelling the world. After college he returned to work at several local companies, and in 1978 passed the national CPA exam and started his own Accounting and Taxation practice.

John’s favorite quote was attributed to Winston Churchill, “You make a living from what you get, but you make a life from what you give.” John had a passion for service, and Rotary International allowed him many opportunities to provide it. He and Paula together home-hosted and mentored students and scholars from countries around the world including Japan, the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, China and Russia. One of the most impactful opportunities was participating in a National Polio Elimination Days trip to Ethiopia, immunizing young children in rural areas against that dread disease.

John was a member and President of the North Seattle Rotary Club, and later a member of the Edmonds Daybreakers Rotary Club. His responsibilities included District Governor, Delegate to the Council on Legislation in New Delhi, India, Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator, International President’s Representative to multiple conferences, and many public speaking engagements. John’s dedication to service was recognized with numerous awards, including Rotarian of the Year, Service Above Self Award, Citation for Meritorious Service, and Rotary Foundation Distinguished Service Award.

In addition to his wife, John is survived by sister Jeanne, sister-in-law Carla, brother-in-laws Thomas and Roland, and nephew Justin. No service is planned, and memorial gatherings will be private. Any remembrances should be made to the charity of your choice, or the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.