Terrence Pauls

Terrence “Terry” Pauls, 73

September 10, 1951 – December 3, 2024

It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of Terrence “Terry” Pauls, a beloved husband, dad, grandpa, brother, and friend. Terry went to be with Jesus on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, at the age of 73. Terry passed away peacefully at his favorite place, his lake home, and leaves a legacy of kindness, humor, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved most. 

Born on September 10, 1951, to Joan and Floyd Pauls Sr. of Watkins, MN, Terry grew up on the family farm. Terry loved to tinker and spend time outside with his siblings. He worked on the family farm and helped his dad, Floyd Sr., transport cattle for Pauls Trucking. Terry graduated from Eden Valley-Watkins High School. Terry then enlisted in the Army which supported his love of tinkering and vehicles. After Terry returned home from overseas, he followed his love of automobiles, especially Chevrolets, to Jack’s Standard of Watkins as a mechanic. Terry then spent decades at First District Association in Litchfield, MN where he held various roles and is also where he eventually retired. Terry was strong in his Catholic faith as a communion minister and member of the Church of St. Anthony in Watkins, MN. He also was a member of Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church in Battle Lake, MN. Terry was a proud Army veteran and 50-year member of Watkins Legion Post 453. 

Terry will be remembered and cherished for his smile and boy-like humor. He had a passion for fishing, critter hunting, nature, and most importantly, hospitality so everyone felt welcomed. He was quick to jokingly share that he was, “as mellow as a glass of water”. 

Above all else, Terry cherished his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Kathy, his children Melanie Pauls, Tina and Kurt Lieser, Nicki and Gary Holthaus and his 5 grandchildren, Chloe, Ty, Mya Lieser and Morgan and Paige Holthaus. Terry’s family brought him immense joy and pride. Terry also leaves behind siblings: Mathew and Lynn Pauls, Shirl and Doug Loch, Karen and Steve Parker, Vicki and Don Schneider, Jeff Pauls and Gail Ransom, Glenn Pauls and June May, Judy Asfeld, Barb and Ken Nistler, Carole Mitchell, Kevin and Lynette Asfeld, Ken and Tami Asfeld, Tom and LaRae Asfeld, and Terry and Sandy Asfeld. Terry's love extended beyond his immediate family, encompassing a wide circle of friends and loved ones who will deeply miss his warmth and humor.

Terry is preceded in death by his parents, Joan and Floyd Pauls Sr., mother-in-law and father-in-law, Cele and Fred Asfeld, brother Floyd Pauls Jr., sister-in-law, Judy Pauls and brother-in-law, Forrest Mitchell.

Visitation will be held from 4-8pm on Sunday, January 5th, 2025, at the Church of St. Anthony in Watkins, MN. A Mass of Christian Burial with military honors will be held on Monday, January 6th, 2025, at 10:00am at the Church of St. Anthony. An additional visitation will be held one hour prior to 10am mass at the church. A light lunch will be served following mass.

Terry will be forever remembered for the love he shared, the stories he told, and the life he lived. His spirit lives in the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him.