Gloria Best

Gloria Rosemary Best, 82, of Rochester, MN passed away on May 25, 2025 at her New Brighton residence after a long battle with dementia.

Gloria was born July 9, 1942 in La Crosse, WI to Orville and Gladys (Overland) Rasmussen. She graduated from Rushford High School in 1960. She married Norman Best in 1962; they later divorced in 1998. The couple adopted their daughter, Susan, in December of 1973.

Gloria worked at the State Hospital in Rochester, MN for over 17 years as an assistant to the Medical Records Administrator until it closed in 1982. She went on to work for the Olmsted County District Court and retired in 2000. She was very proud of the many awards she received for productivity, efficiency, dedication, and leadership during her career.

Gloria was involved with several volunteer organizations including the Eagles, Reach to Recovery (breast cancer support group), and Youth Employment Project, as well as being an Olmsted County election judge.

She was an avid Euchre player and organized weekly tournaments. She also entered various contests over the years winning dozens of prizes: a car, trips, throwing out the first pitch at a Twins game, and riding in a race car at 168 mph!

She is survived by her daughter Susan (Kurt) Olson of New Brighton, sister Judy (Eric) Maland of Las Vegas, grandchildren Jessica and Erik Olson, nephews, and many cousins.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, brother Lyle Rasmussen, grandparents George and Carrie Overland and Andrew and Bella Rasmussen.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 4-7 pm at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Home, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN. The funeral service will be on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 11 am, with visitation 1 hour prior at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 1212 12th Ave NW, Rochester, MN. Lunch will follow the service. Interment will be at the Rushford Lutheran Cemetery.

In honor of Gloria, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Best family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.