On May 20, 2021, Philip “Phil” G. Paulson, 69, of the Sheyenne Care Center in Valley City, ND went home to be with his Lord.  Phil’s devotion to his close family and friends, his Catholic faith and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggles and ultimately gave him peace.  The son of Robert “Bob” and Birdina “Birdie” (Phernetton) Paulson, Phil was born April 1, 1952 in Billings, MT and grew up in the Huntley Project.Phil attended Richardton Preparatory Catholic School one year and graduated with the 1970 class of Huntley Project High School.  A collector of friends, Phil was known for his great sense of humor, his contagious laughter, and the songs he sang to cheer even strangers.

Phil is fondly remembered by his loved ones, including his lifetime of wonderfully compassionate support people of his mental health community.  He is survived by one sister and brother-in-law, Denise and Mike Barbely and their children, Deena (Wes) Grimes, Michael Barbely, Jr., Summer (Bruce) Wiggleston, Christopher Barbely and their 6 grandchildren.  His brother, Clifford Paulson and his sons, Robert and Ryan Paulson and 2 granddaughters also survive.  His sister-in-law, Angie Paulson and her children, Shaun Paulson, Philip Paulson, Samantha (Tim) Yanish, and Aaron Paulson and her 9 grandchildren survive Phil as well.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a younger brother, Russel P. Paulson.  Phil’s mother always emphasized that her children’s best gift to her would be a “family reunion in Heaven.”  “We are one step closer now to that reunion,” Phil’s siblings added.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at St. Catherine Catholic Church on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 11:00 AM.  Monsignor Dennis Skonseng will officiate.  A private burial at Resurrection Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN will follow.  The service will be live streamed, then archived and available to view along with his obituary on the funeral home website, www.lerudschuldt.com

Memorial contributions in memory of Philip G. Paulson may be sent C/O Lerud Mathias Funeral Home; 515 Central Ave. N; Valley City, ND 58072.

Lerud Mathias Funeral Home is assisting Philip’s family with arrangements.