" Many nights going to work I\'d see Jim sitting out by the fire enjoying the evening in the fresh air. Always thought what a good way to end the day. He did it right .Will miss seeing him there. My sympathy to Jim\'s family."
In loving memory of
James "Jim" M. Paulson
May 11, 1961 - March 1, 2022
James (Jimmy, Jim, JP) Michael Paulson was a local celebrity born on May 11, 1961, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Berton and Ioen (Thompson) Paulson. On March 1st, he tragically and unexpectedly passed away while at work. He was only 60 years old.
Jim graduated from being a Houston Hurricane in 1979, where he participated in wrestling and football, earning many awards for his stellar performances. Because being a studly athlete wasn't enough, he was also a very talented artist and had a heart of pure gold.
He worked the family dairy farm from age 15 until he was pertnear 40 and lived near his parent's farm in Mound Prairie through the entirety of his life, completely immersing himself in the outdoors. He was often found sitting (or dancing terribly while playing his rake or shovel) by the fire, rewarding himself as any self-respecting, hard-working man would. While indoors, he enjoyed coaching the Vikings, Twins, Gophers, and Wild from the couch - they sure are lucky he was there to set the refs straight!
Deer Camp was a highly anticipated event in which a few close friends would join in obnoxious singing and marching around the kitchen table, stories around the fire, and of course, Peppermint Schnapps, which was used for the christening of all new hunters.
Jim was an unfortunate slave to addiction, but he adored his children and gave them wonderful childhood memories among the not-so-good days. Very seldom was there a time he refused sporting activities with his children. At Dad's, there was always a lesson taught, and fun was had.
Jim is survived by his loving mother, Ioen Paulson; his partner of more than 20 years, Lori Potaracke; children, Mikayla (Dalton) Mensink and Garrett Thornton-Paulson; beloved grandchildren, Piper and Jade; siblings, Cathy (Dick) Stutzka, Kevin (Rosie) Paulson, and Patty Paulson; 7 nieces and nephews; and a few aunts and uncles.
He was preceded in death by his father, Berton Paulson; infant brother, Berton Edwin Paulson; aunts and uncles, grandparents, and John Wayne.
There will be a service for Jim at Looney Valley Lutheran Church in Houston on Friday, March 11th at 1 p.m. Following the service on Friday there will be a visitation from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Hoff Funeral Home in Houston.
Tributes
"Deepest sympathy to Jim\'s family and friends. My mom, Margrete Kildahl, enjoyed visiting with him through the years. "
"Lori, I am so sorry to hear of Jim?s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time."
"Jim we had ups n we had downs!! More ups than downs!! You were my hero than mine uncle then my friend. You n I buddy could?ve taken on an army! "
"I love you uncle jim!! Thank you for all the fun ! Love your god son Dare "
"Rest Easy Jim , I will always remember your smile and kindness . "
"Our thoughts and prayers are with you all such a force was Jimmy always alway a big smile and so happy to see you. Jim and Johnie had many a good time together although Johnie said he would never again ride on a motorcycle with him again. Jim will always be in our hearts along with so many fun memorable times. God bless him. "
"To the entire Paulson family, I\'m so sorry for your loss. I will always remember Jim\'s quick smile and laugh. Always ready to stop and chat awhile & offering a helping hand if ever needed."
"I am so very sorry for your loss Kathy, Ione and Patty. Remember all the good memories and hold them close to your heart. Hugs to you all."
"Our deepest sympathy goes out to JP?s Family! We were very saddened to hear of your loss! JP was a good friend and truly did have a heart of gold! We have you all in our thoughts and prayers! Rest in Peace?? Tim and Gwen"