Ellsworth G. Rasmussen, 80, Colo. Springs, CO, passed away of various health issues Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at Memorial Central Hospital, Colo. Springs, CO surrounded by his daughters Connie and April. He was born on July 14, 1941 in Moline, Illinois, a son of the late Harold and LaVerne (Vaughan) Rasmussen.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Rasmussen and a sister Lois Brennan; Nephews: Eric Rasmussen; Anthony Robinson and Orlando Gibbs, a Granddaughter, Tiffany Haney and a Great-grandson, Peter Perez.Ellsworth attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School, Phlox, WI and Antigo High School, Antigo, WI, where he met Barbara Jean Miller. They married October 15, 1960 and had Deborah and Connie Rasmussen. They divorced a few years later. He then married Dorothy Jean Garret on Dec 9, 1972 and had April Rasmussen.Survivors include a brother, Paul Rasmussen, CO; a sister Bonita (Bonnie) Gibbs, Antigo, WI; three daughters; Deborah (Raymond) Sanapaw, Keshena; WI; Connie Rasmussen, Keshena, WI, and April Rasmussen, Colo. Springs, Colorado.Ell is also survived by Nephews: Ernie (Amy) Rasmussen, Fruitland, WA; Seth Rasmussen and Nathan Rasmussen, CO; Mark (Pat) Robinson and William Brennan, WI. Shane Gibbs (significant other Cari), Deerbrook, WI and James Gibbs, Wausau, WI. Nieces; Robin (Greg) Verhasselt, Phlox, WI; DiAnn Robinson, Hudson, WI and Sarah (Brian) Austad, Tewksbury, MA.His Grandchildren: Mark Haney; Dawn Haney. Andrea Wescott; Randall (Millie) Wescott; Melissa (Ruben) Wescott; Harlan (Heather) Peters Jr.; Nicole Peters-Corn (Vance). His Great-Grandchildren: Daniel Webster Jr.; Adrianna Alvarado. Aurelia Valencia; Darius Wilber; Mya Torres; Shaniah Torres; Ruben Torres Jr.; Ketamiew Perez; Taylesia Haney; Chance Boivin; Chelcie Boivin; Jaxon Wescott; Carter Corn and Marcel Corn.Ell was employed at various jobs throughout his life, but he particularly loved his job as an elephant keeper at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colo. Springs, CO. He was a professional semi-truck driver and later retired. He enjoyed being outdoors, fishing and hunting. He also loved growing plants, especially cacti. Cremation will be performed by Alternative Cremation, Colo. Springs, CO. A celebration of life with picnic will be held Sat. July 16, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Eleven Mile State Park, CO. Site #275 North Shore E Loop.The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Memorial Central Hospital for taking such good care of Ellsworth. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your favorite zoo.