Merle Howard Rasmussen, 89, of Austin, formerly of Owatonna, died Friday, October 31, 2008 at the Austin Medical Center. He was born October 15, 1919 in Blooming Prairie Township the son of Carl and Sena (Jorgenson) Rasmussen. Merle farmed for several years. He later worked for Wayne Construction and was a buttermaker at the Geneva Creamery. Merle also was a boiler engineer for AMPI and the Owatonna Canning Company. He married Eleanor (Benson) Roberts June 5, 1965 in Austin. The couple lived in Austin, Geneva and Owatonna before returning to Austin. He was proud to have personally built his homes in Geneva and Owatonna. While living in Owatonna, Merle was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church where he participated in the bible study group. He also delivered Meals on Wheels in Owatonna. He was currently a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Austin. Merle enjoyed woodworking, refinishing furniture, making puzzles out of wood and metal objects. He loved fishing and was a dedicated ice fisherman. He is survived by his wife Eleanor Rasmussen of Austin; daughter, Valerie (and Steve) Miller of Maple Grove; sons, Richard Roberts of Montreal, Canada, Thomas Roberts of Austin; 10 grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Merle was preceded in death by 3 brothers, 4 sisters and 2 great grandchildren. Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home on Monday from 9-10am. Funeral services will be held Monday, November 3, at 10:00 AM at Michaelson Funeral Home with Pastor Dan Kahl officiating. Interment will be in the Owatonna Memorial Gardens in Owatonna. Visitation: 11/03/2008 09:00 11/03/2008 10:00 Service: 11/03/2008 10:00