Elsa Y. (Rasmusson) Sterner Obituary
Elsa Y. Sterner (nee Rasmusson), 89, passed on December 22, 2024. She was the loving, eldest daughter of Reverend H. Richard and Edythe Rasmusson. Her brother, Darrell, and sister, Carolyn, preceded her in passing. Elsa met her lifelong friends in 1945 when she moved to West Lafayette, IN. Elaine Yankula, Joan Hemsky, Lois Enneking and Jean Stockdale met Elsa in the 4th grade, and enjoyed their many times together over seven decades. She and her beloved sister-in-law, Dee Rasmusson, always appreciated their visits together. Elsa also had a special place in her heart for nieces Ilsa and Erika. She looked forward to enjoying Christmases and other times together with them and their families. Elsa's best friend of the past 40 years was Cathy Roskopf; she and her husband Bill have been helpful, caring friends.
Elsa first dated Frank M. Sterner on May 9, 1953, and they attended Purdue University together marrying in 1958; later she worked as a Speech and Hearing Therapist as he completed a Master's Degree. They spent all their money then on their first travel in Europe.
Elsa was determined to be a fine Mother and Homemaker, and that developed in the 1960's. Mark was born in 1962, Lisa in 1966. She was a superb Mother and Wife… attentive, caring, loving, listening, encouraging, helping. She eagerly supported and led family activities… picnics, visits with grandparents and relatives, trips to the Zoo or parks, vacations, special travel, visits with friends, new experiences.
Elsa treasured being at the birth of her only granddaughter, Rebecca; the early years were special. Elsa and Frank were able to savor several special events together. Packer games, the 1984 LA Olympics, an evening with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a hot air ballon ride in Kenya, Door County summer days. And there was the Special Dedication for her at the Milwaukee Rescue Mission where "Elsa's Place" was announced. She never sought the spotlight, but she greatly appreciated this recognition by friends and family of how much she cared about the Development and Education of Children.
No special events are planned. Memorial gifts may be directed to: Barbara Vanderburgh, The Milwaukee Rescue Mission; The Alzheimer's Association.
