Clifford L. Rask

Dr. Clifford L. Rask, a beloved family physician known for his caring and compassionate nature, passed away on March 15, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Community- The Woodlands in Albert Lea, MN. He was born on November 24, 1936, in Mandan, ND, and it was there where his journey of service and commitment to others began.
After graduating from Mandan High School in 1954, Clifford dedicated himself to a life of healing and education. He earned his medical degree from the University of North Dakota Medical School in 1960 and the University of Iowa Medical School in 1962. Cliff and Carol Tjentland met and fell in love while they were both students at Concordia College, Moorhead. They married July 3, 1960. Following this, he completed a rotating internship at Detroit, Michigan Receiving Hospital and served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force in Minot, ND.
In 1972, Cliff embarked on a medical missionary journey to Liberia, East Africa, showcasing his dedication to helping those in need. His legacy of service continued as he spent 40 years as a family physician in Maquoketa, IA, where he touched countless lives with his expertise and empathy. Even in retirement, Clifford continued his medical missions in countries like Guyana, always putting the well-being of others above all else.
Throughout his career, Cliff was a mentor to medical students, providing hands-on experience and knowledge that would shape the next generation of healers. His commitment to the community was unwavering, receiving recognition as the Freeborn County Senior Citizen of the Year and actively volunteering as a Ride Service Driver.
Clifford’s dedication extended beyond medicine. He was a proud member of the Golden K Service Club, served on the Council for the Southeastern MN Synod-ELCA, and was an active member of Ascension Lutheran Church. A man of many talents, Clifford enjoyed yard work, golf, and exploring new cultures.
Clifford is survived by his loving spouse of 63 years, Carol (Tjentland) Rask; daughter, Karen (David) Behling; son, Tim Rask; grandchildren, Marta (Casey) Roser, Stuart Behling, Emma (Lauren) Mattison; great-grandchildren, Teddy and Xavior; siblings, Bonnie (David) Westermoe, Joyce Johnson, James (Peggy) Rask; sisters-in-law, Lorna Rask, Ardelle (Robert) Torkelson; brother-in-law, Lowell (Nancy) Tjentland; and many nieces and nephews.
Cliff is preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Agnes Rask; brother, Roger Rask; brother-in-law, Harley Johnson; and daughter-in-law, Theresa Kingenberg.
A visitation honoring his life will be held at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services on March 22, 2024, at 9:30 am, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 am with Pastor Mark Boorsma officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to St. John’s Lutheran Home, St. Croix Hospice, or an organization of the donor’s choice to honor Cliff’s memory. His legacy of kindness and service will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.