Lyla Mae Hagemeister of Rochester, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2023, at Madonna Towers at the age of 78. While cancer took her quickly, she was at peace, and spoke of being grateful for a full life, filled with a loving family and great memories.

Lyla was born on November 25, 1944, to Lee and Della (Farnsworth) Rasmusson. She grew up in surrounding areas of Northeast Iowa and Southeastern MN, graduating from Stewartville, MN high school in 1963. Being one of eight siblings, she was of great help to her parents with her sisters and brothers. Her commitment and service to others continued, as she entered the US Army in 1974, serving her country for 4 years. While in the service she spent time in Germany for part of her training. After her service to the US Army, Lyla began working at the Mayo Clinic, where she was a long-time employee.

Lyla was a caring and compassionate woman, who taught us to serve others, and to find the good in every situation. She often volunteered for the Salvation Army, as she was a giver. Lyla spent much of her life helping care for her mother, Della, after her father passed away. She and two of her sisters (Gail and Linda) shared a home and spent much time together. Lyla loved to travel, see new things, and visit family. She was especially fond of her cat Doda (doo-da).

She truly loved family gatherings, whether a special occasion – or just because. Lyla was quick to ask what food she could bring – because the Rasmusson gatherings always included plentiful food! Lyla also relished time spent with nieces and nephews – Disney movies, McDonald's Happy Meals, the park – and whatever else the kids had in their hearts they wanted to do – she was all in!

In 2005, she married John Hagemeister. John shared his love of country music, hymns by the Gaithers with Lyla, and they enjoyed 9+ years of married life exploring and spending precious time with family before Alzheimer's took John in 2014.

Lyla is survived by her sisters; Joyce (Marv) Clark of Portland Oregon, Mary (Wes) Clark of Rochester, Linda Rasmusson, Gail Rasmusson, and two brothers; Glenn (Sharon) Rasmusson of Spring Valley, Steve (Jackie) Rasmusson of Rochester, sister-in-law Martha Rasmusson of Cresco, IA, along with many nieces, nephews.

Lyla was preceded in death by her husband John Hagemeister, her parents, Lee, and Della (Farnsworth) Rasmusson, her brother, John Rasmusson, nephew Tim Rasmusson, and niece Nancy Clark.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 17, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Macken Funeral Home in Rochester. The family will receive guests for the visitation an hour prior to the service. A light lunch will be served following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be sent to the Salvation Army. Macken Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.