Esther L. Rasmusson

Age 96, of Morris, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, March 8, 2025, with her children by her side at Serenity Estates of Morris.

Born on January 30, 1929, in Litchfield, Illinois, Esther Lillian was a daughter of Edwin Hermann Heinrick Monke and Emma Lillian (nee Prange) Monke. She was raised in Harvel, Illinois, where she excelled academically, graduating as Valedictorian of the Harvel High School Class of 1946. Her passion for learning led her to Illinois State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in education in 1950.

On April 26, 1952, Esther married the love of her life, Curtis O. Rasmusson, in her hometown of Harvel. Together, they settled in Curtis’ hometown of Morris, where they built a beautiful life and raised their family. A dedicated educator, Esther taught elementary school (K-8) before choosing to focus on her home and family. In addition to being a devoted wife and mother, she worked alongside Curt on the farm, taking great pride in their work both in Grundy County and on her family farm in Harvel. Their partnership was one of unwavering commitment, love, and hard work.

Esther was a woman of deep faith, putting all her trust in Jesus her loving Savior. She was a devoted member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Morris, where she found joy in fellowship, participating in ladies' groups and Bible study. Esther’s faith guided her in everything she did, from tending to those in need to visiting with residents in nursing homes. She had a genuine and generous spirit, always welcoming others into her home with warmth and kindness. Whether cooking meals for visiting pastors or neighbors, Esther’s hospitality was a reflection of her love for others.

She cherished traveling, embracing adventures both near and far, and even in her later years, her zest for life shone through. She was a member of the Grundy County Home Extension and found her greatest joy in the simple yet profound role of being a wife, mother, and grandmother. Esther’s legacy is one of faith, love, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Her kindness, strength, and servant’s heart will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Survivors include her children: Kristy (Steve) Bunge of Yorkville, Illinois, Connie (Steve) BeMiller of Bloomington, Illinois and Susan (Jim) Farber and Eric (Annie) Rasmusson, both of Morris; eight granddaughters: Megan (Terry) Frank, Kimberly (D.J.) Carlson, AnnMarie (Jimmy) Kolber, Haley BeMiller, Ashley Farber, Paige McIntire, Olivia Rasmusson and Hannah Rasmusson; six great grandchildren; one brother, Paul (Joy) Monke, and three sisters-in-law, Marian Monke, Hallie Monke and Nancy Goering, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents; husband Curt (2021); daughter, Amy Beth in infancy (1967); two brothers: Edwin Monke and Ray Monke and one sister, Virginia (Roy) Fishburn.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 202 W. Jefferson Street in Morris on Friday morning, March 14, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until time of funeral service 11:00 a.m. Pastor Patrick Lohse will officiate, and burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Morris where Esther will be laid to rest with her husband and daughter.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Esther’s memory to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 202 W. Jefferson Street, Morris, IL 60450 or to Family Radio Network, PO Box 305112, Nashville, TN 37230-9933

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneralHome.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Esther’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes. (815-942-0700)