Beverly Ann Rasmussen

Beverly Ann Rasmussen, nee Petersen, was born October 26, 1933 and passed to her heavenly Father on September 20, 2023. She was born and raised in Kankakee, Illinois to Albert and Viola Petersen.

Music has played a large part in her life. At age 7, she began piano lessons with Mrs. Gray for 10 years. As a teenager, she played on an old “Reed” pump organ for church. Beverly had a B.S from Olivet Nazarene University in Music education, and an M.S. in Music education from the University of Illinois. At Olivet she presented a senior recital in piano.

She taught music at St. Anne and Bradley Schools for 6 years. Beverly had directed the choir and played the organ at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Bradley, IL and Grace Lutheran in Wilmington, IL. She was the pianist for the Wednesday evening services at Christ Church Lutheran in Phoenix for many years. She sang and was the accompanist in the Motet choir there for 10 years.

Beverly married the Rev. Ervin B. Rasmussen on December 26, 1960 at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Bradley, IL. Surviving family members are daughter Beth (Jerry) Lowery; sons: Martin (Kimberly) Rasmussen; the Rev. Christian Rasmussen; and daughter Thea Rappuhn ( preceded in death, William). She is also survived by four grandchildren: Jacob and Noah Rasmussen; Jaxon and Danielle Rappuhn. Ervin and Beverly also served several churches during their marriage; Grace Lutheran, Wilmington, IL, Redeemer Lutheran, Wickenburg, AZ; and Trinity in Litchfield Park, AZ. Beverly also played as a guest organist at many churches.

Bev worked as a secretary for Christ Church Lutheran, as a receptionist and Admin Assistant for Aid Association for Lutherans (now Thrivent), and DUET (formerly The Center DOAR, developing older adult resources).

Beverly was active in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League in the local society, zone, district and national level. She was the Host Chair for the 1998 District LWML Convention held in Scottsdale, AZ. She also served as the Vice President for Gospel Outreach for the Pacific Southwest District LWML; VP of Communications PSW LWML, PSD LWML Nominating committee; and Chair of the District Retreat. Bev also served on the Gospel Outreach Committee of the National LWML and District levels. She was also active in Bible Study, leading 6 am SOS group at Christ Church, she played for the Chicago folk services, and was the accompanist for the school choir at their musicals.

Beverly lived to serve her Lord Jesus, her family, her church and people in general. She was the prayer chain coordinator at CCL for 35 years and sent greeting cards to anyone who she thought needed a bit of joy or support in their day.

Memorial Service at Christ Lutheran Church on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 1 pm with a reception following at 3901 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Christ Lutheran School Scholarship Fund at 3901 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018.