Arnold Leland "Nip" Rasmason

RASMASON, ARNOLD "Nip" - Entered into rest at home in Santa Rosa, CA, following a short illness on November 16, 2013. Dearly beloved fifty-eight year husband of the late Edith F. Rasmason (Lombardi). Beloved father of Lee Rasmason of Kingston, NY. Adored grandfather of Ryan Rasmason and Nicholas Rasmason. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. A native of Stewarts Point, CA, age 98 years. Nip is also preceded in death by his son, Marvin Rasmason, four brothers and one sister. Nip was reared in Stewarts Point, CA and graduated from Healdsburg High School. He is a WWII Veteran, having served in the U.S. Army. Nip worked for the California Division of Forestry for twenty-five years, retiring in 1962. Following his retirement, he started a Christmas Tree Business, where he grew, cut and sold the trees to many Christmas Tree Lots in Santa Rosa. A video link of a recent interview with Nip can be seen on "The Story Shed, Oral Histories of California Rural Past, at www.thestoryshed.wordpress.com (scroll down to "Cow Patty Footwarmers"). His passion was restoring Antique Gas Engines, especially Antique Maytag Washing Machines, Antique Chainsaw's and other Logging Equipment. He was a member of the IOOF Lodge #53 and member and Past President of The Early Days Gas Engine & Tractor Association, Branch #31. A private family Graveside Service with interment will be held at Santa Rosa Memorial Park. A public "Celebration of Nip's Life" is planned for early December (Information will be announced).