The Blaine County Journal News-Opinion - We've Got The County Covered

Phyllis Bergh Rasmussen of Harlem died February 22, 2018, at the Sweet Home in Chinook, following a period of declining health. She was born on January 22, 1929 in Sheyenne, North Dakota, to Mae Berglund and Elmer Bergh. Phyllis grew up in Harlem, Montana. She survived rheumatic fever, missing a year of school, which she made up so she could graduate with her class mates in 1946. She was known for playing the saxophone in school and in local dance bands.

Phyllis attended the University of Montana for one semester. In later life she regretted not completing her college degree, although she was a lifelong reader and learner. On June 16, 1947 she married the love of her life, Don Rasmussen. They lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania while Don attended the Art Institute, and she worked in a photographic studio. They moved to Denver where their children Mark and Kristin were born.

In 1961 they returned to the family farm in Hogeland and also lived in Harlem. She was a homemaker who enjoyed sewing and baking. She and Don became square dancers and enjoyed traveling in their RV. Phyllis was a member of the Harlem Presbyterian Church and the Yoke Parish. She was active in the Busy XX Club for many years.

A period of declining health brought both Don and Phyllis to the Sweet Home in Chinook in 2013 where they received excellent care. Don preceded her in death on June 9, 2017, just one week shy of their 70th wedding anniversary. Phyllis was also proceeded in death by her parents, her sister Twila Bergh Clawson, and infant brother Donald. She is survived by her son Mark (Yvonne) Rasmussen, of Hogeland; daughter Kristin (Russ) McKinley of Douglas, Arizona; grandson Paul (Kellie) Rasmussen of Hogeland; grand-daughter Kara (Jeff) Doyle of Billings; and great-grandchildren Daniel and Andrew Rasmussen and Patrick Doyle with another Doyle great-grandchild on the way.

A graveside service will be held at a future date. Memorial gifts may be given to the Harlem Yoke Parish or the donor's choice.

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