Juanita Mae Rasmusson

Juanita Mae Rasmusson peacefully passed away on the morning of Feb. 13 in her residence at St. Joseph’s Assisted Living Center in Polson.

She was born in San Francisco on July 6, 1931 to Paul and Josephine Nation, and is proceeded in death by her parents and sister, Lynn Tait, of Santa Rosa, Calif. Juanita is survived by her two daughters Linda Praetzel of Rollins and Laurie Caswell of Polson.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Steven Praetzel of Lakeside, Jason Von Bima of Independence, Mo., Koni Raes of Waddell, Ariz., Tommy Reaka of Waddell Ariz., and Heather Reaka-Eyheralde of Vallejo, Calif., and eight geat-grandchildren.

Juanita married Bernie Rasmusson who was raised in Lavina, Mont., and formerly of Polson. The marriage produced their two daughters, Linda and Laurie.

Following their divorce, she supported the family as a bookkeeper and later in life she owned and operated a successful industrial cleaning company and provided home health care.

The many working years having taken their toll, the last season was marked with numerous health problems including knee and hip replacements and other maladies that kept her close to the medical community. In 1997, Juanita moved to Polson to be close to family.

Whether it be her neighbors or the workers in the grocery store, doctors and nurses, hospital staff, people in church or in St. Joseph’s Assisted Living Home, Juanita had a way of getting into lives. She loved people. She often she would say, “I don’t know why, but people just open their lives with me!”

Perhaps Facebook posts describe her best: “She was one “feisty lady,” “she was so real and down to earth,” “She was a wonderful lady,” “dearly loved,” “We loved this woman...so real,” approachable and loyal,” “sweet, great neighbor,” “sweet and special lady,” “Her influence made a difference in my life,” “I loved Juanita for being real,” and “Heaven gained a great lady today. I hope they were ready for her!”

There will be a memorial service for Juanita at 11 a.m. on Saturday Feb. 24, in the lower level youth center at New Life Church, 1414 Second St. West, in Polson. The Reverend Miles finch will be officiating.