Michael D. Paulus, 77 of Rockford passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at his home surrounded by family.
Visitation will be held from 10:00am to 12:00pm Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St. NE, Mason City, IA. Sharing of memories will begin at 11:30am.
Following the visitation, the family will gather at Michael’s home, 706 1st Ave. SW, Rockford, IA to celebrate the afternoon with the things he loved: people, stories, food and the outdoors.
Michael Dean Paulus was born February 15, 1946 in Charles City, the son of Earl and Bernice (Sido) Paulus. Growing up on the family farm near Rockford, Michael attended Rockford High School. The farm was a constant in his life, whether he was working at the queries or traveling for construction work, it was the farm he came back to. He milked cows, cared for the horses and other animals, watched over neighbors and tended to the land. One of Michael’s greatest joys was the experience of becoming a dad to Thomas, Brooke and Brittany. However, that sense of joy was eclipsed when he had the opportunity to become a grandpa!
Michael loved the outdoors and relished in time spent enjoying the wilderness. He loved camping and had worked diligently alongside family to create a campsite down by the river, gathering friends and family for unforgettable weekends and summers. His easy going nature was beautifully contrasted with his quick wit and perfect punchlines. A nickname was lovingly bestowed upon all those he cared for. Michaels’ passion for NASCAR brought him to races around the country, and his love for the Iowa Hawkeyes was unmatched. But, above all, Michael cherished his family. He instilled a passion for the outdoors in them, and his memory will live on through their love and adventures in nature. He was a devoted dad, grandpa, and great grandpa and he will be forever remembered.
Surviving are his children, Tom (Peggy) Williams of Rockford, Brooke (Austin Wahlgren) Paulus of Rudd, and Brittany (Nate) Grady of Rockfalls; grandchildren, Johnny Grady, Kyan Teepe, Mahayla Marzen, James Fuller, Jordan Harms, Jade Harms, and Weston Grady; great-grandchildren, Hayzal Grace, Brandtley and Huxley Roberts; siblings, Robert (Mary) Paulus, Richard Paulus, Sandy Lossee, Becky Farr, and Cindy (Bernie) Goodale; sisters-in-law, Jeannie Paulus and Linda Paulus; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
Preceding him in death are his parents, Earl and Bernice; siblings, Joanne Paulus in infancy, Dennis Paulus Sr., William Paulus, Garry Paulus, and Janice Herman; brothers-in-law, Johnny Herman, Ray Lossee and Terry Farr.
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