February 8, 1929 - June 13, 2026
Mary Ellen Rasmussen (née Estepa) passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on Saturday, June 13th. Born on February 8, 1929, as a tiny but determined baby weighing just over two pounds, Mary Ellen demonstrated a strength and resilience from the very beginning that would define her entire life. Born a twin during the height of the Great Depression, she was the beloved daughter of Diego Estepa and Josephine Jurado, whose journey from Spain to America helped shape her lifelong values of hard work, faith, and family.
In her youth, Mary Ellen worked the canneries and prune orchards in Santa Clara, California, before marrying her beloved Donald J. Rasmussen in April of 1951. The pair shared 60 wonderful years of marriage before Donald’s passing in 2011. Her family takes great comfort in knowing that they are finally reunited.
Mary Ellen found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved listening to the music of the 1950s and '60s, dancing the foxtrot, cooking fabulous meals, and baking the best desserts for her family. She was also a passionate traveler who successfully visited 49 of the 50 states—leaving Kentucky as the only one left unseen.
Above all, Mary Ellen treasured her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose guidance, wisdom, and unconditional love shaped generations.
In addition to her husband Donald, Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, ten siblings, and her beloved baby granddaughter, Dawn Marie Horst.
Her legacy of love lives on through her three daughters, Patricia (Jack) Arnold, Julie Getty, and Mary Primeau; her grandchildren, Kenneth and James Arnold, Daniel Horst, Kristin Upton, and Taylor Primeau; and her great-granddaughter, Bronte Upton. Mary Ellen also leaves behind her sister, Josephine “Jay” Moore, whom she cherished deeply. She leaves behind a family who adored her and who will carry her memory forward through the vibrant stories she shared and the values she instilled.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for Mary Ellen throughout her life and during her final days. Her life was a true testament to perseverance, faith, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
VISITATION
A visitation will be held from 12:00pm - 1:00pm on Wednesday, June 24th, 2026 at the Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA.
SERVICE
A service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, June 24th, 2026 at the Evergreen Chapel at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA.
Please leave your condolences below.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Rasmussen family.