Duane James Paulson

Duane James Paulson age 73, of Menahga, MN died Thursday, January 02, 2014 at his home. Duane was born to Clarence and Olive (Wilson) Paulson on April 25, 1940 in Park Rapids, MN. He attended school in Menahga thru the 11th grade and graduated from Lake Park, MN in 1958. He enlisted in the United States Air Force on July 22, 1959 during the Vietnam era and received his Honorable Discharge on July 29, 1963. Duane continued his education at Wahpeton State School of Science where he learned the sheet metal trade. He was accepted into the Sheet Metal Union Number 34 in Minneapolis, MN and worked there for 35 years, retiring in 2001. In 1998 Duane was united in marriage to Marcie (Lusti) Markkula. They moved back to the Menahga area and lived on Moran Lake until his death. He was a Life Member of the American Legion for 33 years. Duane is survived by his wife, Marcella (Marcie) Paulson; daughter, Coreen Markkula Constantine; three sons, Timothy, Steven and Darin Markkula; three sisters, Vivian Schwab; Jane Peterson and Jean Magnauson; brothers, Anthony and Daniel; six grandchildren, Micheal, Lukus, Nicole, Brandon, Brett and Alex and one great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dexter. Memorial Services will be held on Friday, January 17, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the First English Lutheran Church in Menahga, MN with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Pastor Steven A. Bruer will officiate. Mary Hanninen will serve as organist and soloist singing “The Lord’s Prayer.” Honorary Pallbearers are all of his children and grandchildren. Guy L. McDermeit VFW Post #6206 of Menahga, MN will provide Military Honors. Inurnment will be in the VA section of the Menahga City Cemetery in the spring.