The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) mourns the loss of Bill Rasmussen, a valued member of the Parkinson’s community, passionate advocate and member of the Foundation’s Patient Council. He passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at the age of 93.
A life-long entrepreneur and sports fan, Bill Rasmussen’s innovations in advertising, sports and broadcasting spanned the creation of ESPN, the world’s first 24-hour, 7-days-a-week sports television network, to the network’s signature program SportsCenter, wall-to-wall coverage of NCAA men’s and women’s regular-season and tournament college basketball coverage and coverage of the College World Series.
After leaving ESPN, Rasmussen contributed to a number of other media ventures and was in high demand as a national speaker providing thought leadership and personal viewpoints on his experience founding the network.
Bill was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2014 at the age of 81 and confronted the disease with his signature positive attitude and a commitment to staying active, embracing engagement and inspiring others — one person at a time.
He joined The Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Patient Council in May 2020 and quickly became a passionate ambassador for the Foundation, helping educate people and families living with Parkinson’s about the invaluable role they can play in advancing research, particularly in the days and months following a PD diagnosis. Bill generously shared his experience and perspective across a range of Foundation resources, including guides, webinars and podcasts, offering invaluable insight to others navigating life with Parkinson’s.
"Bill was a true pioneer whose vision changed the world of sports, but to those of us in the Parkinson’s community, his legacy is equally defined by the generosity, optimism and determination with which he shared his Parkinson’s journey,” said Debi Brooks, CEO and co-founder of The Michael J. Fox Foundation. “Bill used his voice and his experience to encourage others to be informed, get involved in research and believe in the possibility of a better future. We are deeply grateful for the impact he made on the Foundation, and our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones at this difficult time."
Rasmussen was predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Lois, in 2011. He is survived by two sons, Scott Rasmussen and his wife Laura, and Glenn Rasmussen; his daughter Lynn Van Hollebeke and her husband Louie; seven grandchildren (Andy, P.J., Wil, MaryAnn, Donna, Jessica and Sarah); a great-grandson, Otto; and a great-granddaughter, Adelaide. In addition to his wife, Rasmussen was predeceased by his brothers Robert and Donald Rasmussen, sister Vivien and grandson Justin Van Hollebeke.