Obituary of Arne Keith Rasmussen

Keith Rasmussen Born 11/5/25, on the second floor of Silen's Shoe Store, his family's business in Wildwood, NJ, Keith went home to be with his Lord on 7/14/15. Keith and his wife, Evelyn, owned and operated Silen's for over 40 years before their son, Barry, took over the family business. Keith graduated from Wildwood High School, where he played football and played in the band. He attended Culver Military and Lafayette College before joining the US Navy. Fortunately, for both Keith and the US Navy, his musical talents were recognized and he was assigned to the US Navy Band. He played his trombone throughout the South Pacific, entertaining the troops, officers and the USO, playing alongside some musical greats, such as Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman. After WW II Keith obtained a degree in finance from Wilkes College. Along the way, fate stepped in and he asked a cute coed to the Wilkes Cinderella Ball. She said “Yes” and a love affair began that led to marriage in 1950, and continued until Evelyn's passing in 2013. Keith was a long time member of Wildwood Crest Methodist Church where he sang in the choir. He was a Master Mason, Shriner, Past President of Kiwanis and Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce, a volunteer at Holly Beach Fire Company and a member at Avalon Golf Club. Keith and Evelyn enjoyed travel, golf and winters in Deerfield Beach, Fl. Keith is survived by his son, Barry (Patricia), daughter, Paula, grandchildren James (Jennifer), Daniel (Cassandra) Rasmussen, Melissa and Charlie. In addition he had three great-grandchildren, Ryan, Penny and Claire. Visitation will be Monday, 9:30 – 10:30 AM at Wildwood Crest Methodist Church, 6700 Seaview Ave. A celebration of his life will follow. Burial will be private at the Veterans' Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wildwood Crest Methodist Church or to Crest Haven Nursing Home Activities Department, 4 Moore Rd., CMCH, NJ 08210