Harlan D. Paulsrud

Harlan Douglas Paulsrud, 80, of Benson, Minnesota, died peacefully Saturday evening, December 26, 2020 at the Country Manor Retirement Center in Sartell, Minnesota. Visitation was held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Benson, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.  Burial may follow in the spring of 2021.

Harlan was born February 3, 1940 in Montevideo (Grace Township), to Edward and Josie Paulsrud. He was baptized March 10, 1940 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Montevideo. He was confirmed at Buffalo Lake Lutheran Church June 27, 1954. He was a graduate of Montevideo High School in 1957. After high school, Harlan joined the United States Navy Air Department and served four years form 1958-1962. After the military, he went to school for Auto Mechanic at Willmar Community College.

From his first marriage he was blessed with two children; Doug and Denise. December 10, 1977, he married Rebecca Connelly and they raised three children Michael, Melissa, and Melinda in Benson. Throughout his years, he worked at Nelson International as a mechanic, AGP as a driver, and at Quinco delivering papers.

Harlan loved spending time with his family, hunting, fishing and watching TV, especially when the MN Twins were on. It was also very common to hear him yelling, crying or laughing at the TV throughout an entire Viking games, as if he was the coach or there in person. He was often seen around town chatting with people and catching up. Harlan enjoyed sharing stories and attending his kids’ sporting events.

Harlan is preceded in death by his parents: Edward and Josie; brothers: Ernie and Curtis; sisters: Cora and Joy, brother-in-law Henry, wife Rebecca, daughter Denise, and nephew Dale. He is survived by his four children; Doug, Michael, Melissa, and Melinda; grandchildren: Landon, Madyson, and Harper, and a sister Edna.

Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements.