Bradley “Brad” Paulson, a week shy of his 73rd birthday, passed away on August 19, 2025, in Fargo, North Dakota.
Brad was born in Crookston, Minnesota, the son of Eunice and Delmer Paulson. He graduated from Crookston Central High School and U of M Crookston then worked at Tri-Valley and BNSF Railroad until his retirement. Brad had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, whether casting a line alone or sharing stories sitting by the water. He rarely missed a chance to watch sports, especially the Minnesota Twins and Vikings. Music was another favorite topic of conversation for him; he could talk rock n roll trivia for hours. Brad had a reputation for his lengthy phone calls, often spending an hour or two talking with those lending him an ear. His warmth and talkative nature made him a comforting presence to those around him. A devoted animal and cat lover, Brad cherished all the cats he had over the years. His affection extended deeply to his family as well.
He is survived by his brother Jeff Paulson and wife Valerie Nygaard along with his nieces: Aryanna Ostgaard, Cyrina Ostgaard, and Gabi Ostgaard. Brad was also close with several cousins including Gary and Karen Paulson, Linda Paulson, Ron Paulson, Stan Koppang, Gary Koppang, Jeanne Koppang and additional cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents Eunice and Delmer Paulson; his brother Larry Paulson and sister-in-law Debbie; and his sister Natalie Ostgaard and brother-in-law Kent.
Brad will surely be missed by all his friends and loved ones. A Celebration of Life was held on September 5, 2025, at 6:00pm at the Crookston Eagles Club.
Memorials can be given in Brad's honor to Cat's Cradle, 1501 32nd Ave So, Fargo ND 58103.
Service Program
Poem / Prayer
Poem read at Brad's memorial gathering:
Lord, keep me going for another day,
And, when this body languishes for rest,
Bring peaceful sleep throughout the quiet hours,
Unmarred by worries and by restlessness.
Lord keep me going when my back becomes
Too sore to bear the burden of it all,
When vision dims, and everywhere I turn,
It seems I only bump into a wall.
Lord, keep me going when the way becomes
Over-grown with brambles and with weeds,
Turn not Thy face away, I ask for naught
Save Thou attend to my most meager needs.
And if sometimes I may be sad of heart,
I beg at least, dear Lord, keep it from showing.
I do not ask to walk upon the waves,
But for another day, Lord keep me going.
Written by Grace E. Easley
