Ed Rasko
November 23, 1924 – April 20, 2022
From the 95th BG Memorials Foundation Facebook page:
With heavy hearts, the Memorials Foundation and the Heritage Association announce that Ed Rasko (Rashkovsky) of Jackson, NJ, left formation on 20 April 2022 at the age of 97. Ed was a 412th navigator, flying on Ed Grant’s crew. Folded wings.
Ed was born on 23 November 1924 in Brooklyn, NY. While a Brooklyn kid, he later traveled the world multiple times as a result a successful career in international trade. Ed’s obituary reads as follows:
“Edward Rasko, 97, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, in Jackson, New Jersey.
“Born in Brooklyn, he resided in New York, Hawaii, California, and then Florida before moving to Jackson in 2020, passionately enjoying music, travel, food, theater and cinema along the way.
“He proudly served in the Army Air Corps as a 2nd lieutenant during World War II from 1943-45 and was awarded several medals for valor.
“He earned his master’s degree in accounting from City College of New York. He worked in the steel industry for over 40 years, eventually founding Amerasia International Trade, traveling the world several times over before retiring in 2000.
“He was an active member of the 95th Bomb Group and was thrilled to attend a reunion in 2019 with the remaining members of his squad.
“He is predeceased by his wife Marcia Rasko in 2000. Surviving are his daughters, Stacey Rasko & her husband Stephen Martinis, Peri D Rasko, and Rebecca Rasko, and grandchildren Garrett & Alix Rasko-Martinis, Marielle Rasko, and Jakob & Genna Rasko-Valdez.
“Cremation was private. In lieu of flowers please make donations in memory of Edward Rasko to The Gary Sinise Foundation (garysinisefoundation.org/donate) or The American Cancer Society, 2310 Route 34 Suite 1D, Manasquan NJ 08736 or (cancer.org).
“The family will be sitting Shiva on Sunday, April 24th, at the home of Stacey Rasko & Stephen Martinis.”
“It is always difficult saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish,” writes Ed’s family. “Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Edward Rasko.”
Ed was particularly proud of being with the 95th. “This group meant so much to him,” remembers daughter Stacey. “Daddy was so proud to be a part of this group,” confirmed daughter Peri. “He enjoyed the [Savannah] reunion tenfold and all the comradery. He loved his time in the Air Force.” Keith Kappes, son-in-law of 334th pilot Ray Hobbs, also recalls Ed’s affection for his old bomb group. “Ray Hobbs and family got acquainted with Ed at the Savannah reunion,” writes Keith. “He was a stand-up guy and very proud of his service in the 95th.”
Our most heartfelt condolences to the Rasko family at the unimaginable loss of a gifted man who loved life fully and faithfully served the 95th Bomb Group in which he was a treasured Veteran. Alav HaShalom.