C. Dean Rasmussen Legacy Society

Dean Rasmussen (1943 - 2024) was a visionary and transformational leader who turned personal tragedy into a powerful force for change. After the loss of his father to ALS, Dean channeled his grief into more than 35 years of impactful volunteerism, philanthropy, and advocacy in support of the ALS community.

As a dedicated Advisory Trustee of the ALS Network and passionate advocate, Dean and his family worked closely with key ALS Network leaders including Fred Fisher, former President Emeritus, Jim Barber, former chair of the California Advocacy Committee, and Fred Noteware of Noteware Government Relations. Dean helped establish leading ALS public policy programs at the federal and state levels that have generated billions in benefits and crucial funding for ALS research.

Many would call Dean a “self-made” man. As a leader in the heavy construction industry, the Rasmussen family’s company made their mark moving earth to build many of the bridges, freeways, and railways throughout California and the west. Dean often shared a guiding principle: “As a grating contractor, I was on a mission to reshape the earth to better suit God’s intended plan.” This philosophy reflected his dedication to the ALS Network too. Applying his time, talents, resources, vision, and unwavering commitment, Dean reshaped our organization and positioned it to be one of the leading ALS organizations locally, nationally and globally. Not one to back down from a challenge, including a challenge like ALS, Dean wholeheartedly embraced opportunities to power our mission priorities related to research, advocacy, and care, and he encouraged everyone to join him. Dean’s actions were the embodiment of philanthropy—and he created a lasting legacy that will continue to resonate for generations.

In addition to his financial contributions during his lifetime, he ensured the future of the ALS Network by including the organization in his estate plan, solidifying his legacy of dedication and service.