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Robert “Bob” Arnold Paulson, 87, of Moose Lake, Minnesota, formerly of Willow River, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Moose Lake Assisted Living.

Bob was born in Denham, Minnesota, on September 9, 1938, to Arnold and Mildred (Schejbal) Paulson. He graduated from Willow River High School in 1956 and went on to attend the University of Minnesota, graduating in 1960. Following college, Bob proudly served two years in the United States Navy.

In 1962, Bob began his teaching career at Willow River High School, where he taught and coached for more than 33 years before retiring in 1995. During his career, he taught Phy Ed, Health, History, and Driver’s Education. Bob coached basketball, track and field and was the head football coach at Willow River.

Bob married the love of his life, Marie Heitman, in 1965. They shared a loving marriage for 55 years until her passing on September 25, 2020. Bob cherished his life with Marie and the life they shared together.

Bob enjoyed many fishing trips to Lake of the Woods and Canada with Marie and friends, as well as hunting, golfing, and watching high school sports, and University of Minnesota sports, especially Gopher Football. Bob and Marie also loved to travel, visiting all 50 states, Mexico, and Canada, along with taking memorable trips to Europe.

Bob was deeply involved in his community. He was a member of the Willow River American Legion, Hope Lutheran Church, and the Willow River Commercial Club. He also served on the Willow River City Council and was a member of the Willow River Fire Department.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather: John Paulson, beloved wife: Marie, sisters: Audrey Cyrus, Judy Jurek, brothers-in-law: Del Tadych, Dominic Jurek and nephew Marc Tadych.

Bob is survived by his brother, David (Judy) Paulson; nephews: Kevin (Connie) Cyrus, Jay (Chris) Cyrus, Micheal Tadych (Stacy) Brian Tadych (Christy) and nieces: Janelle (Bob) Niznik; Becky (Scott) Sears, Lisa (James) Wren, Erin (Dan) Battaglia, Emily (Bryton) Overton and Jessica Tydch; brother-in-law Alan Cyrus and sister-in-law Patricia Tadych.

Bob will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his students, his athletes, and the communities he served. His commitment to teaching, coaching, and helping others touched many lives throughout his years.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the11:00 a.m. memorial service on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Hope Lutheran Church, 204 Elm Ave., Moose Lake, MN 55767. Inurnment will be at Sunnyside Cemetery in Willow River.