Kathleen Kay Paulson

Kathleen Kay Paulson, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at Edgewood Vista in Mandan, ND, on July 28, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 21, 1939, in Castlewood, SD, Kay was the cherished daughter of Don and Monica Koenders. In 1956, Kay married her soulmate, David Paulson, in Hayti, SD. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. Though David preceded her in death, their union blessed them with three daughters, and a lifetime of wonderful memories. Kay is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Kim Rambur (Mike) and Terri Camp, and her grandchildren, Nicki Williams (Ryan), Jeff Camp (Tawny), Jenny Johnson (Brock), Katie Rambur, Andy Aasen (Megan), and Rosie Minnis (Ben). Her great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Bridget Williams, Hudson, Emmett, and Lucy Camp, Bria, Rylee, and Jersey Johnson, Maeve Minnis, and Cameron Aasen, will forever miss their doting "Grandma Kay." She is survived by her siblings, Judy Bevers (Ken), Denny Koenders, Rich Koenders (Isis), and Tony Koenders (Cindy), who will carry forward her legacy of love. Kay was predeceased by her beloved husband and soulmate David, her daughter, Pamela Aasen, son-in-law, Jim Camp, her parents, Don and Monica Koenders and brothers Greg and Jerry Koenders. Kay chose her family first over everything and was always there to welcome them home from school with a snack, home from work with a kiss and happy story of the day. An beautiful seamstress, her abilities to make any garment her girls requested including exquisite prom dresses and wedding dresses was so appreciated by them all. Her organizational skills and passion for antiques were put to excellent use in her estate sale business, while her volunteer work at hospitals in Fargo and Park Rapids, MN, brought comfort to many. Kay and David were active members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Bismarck. Her contributions to the church included serving on the Altar Guild, making paraments, and preparing for communion. Kay's quilting talents brought warmth to the less fortunate, and her involvement with the church's Luther League created cherished memories for young and old alike. As a longtime member of PEO in Fargo, she helped young women pursue their educational dreams. Kay's greatest joy was her family. She delighted in spending time with her children and grandchildren, often playing on the floor with them or preparing their favorite meals. Her home was a haven of love, beautifully adorned with flowers she tended to with care. Even during her time at Edgewood, her love for gardening never waned. Kay's zest for life extended to her hobbies, which included camping, fishing, golfing, and bowling. She was known for her culinary prowess, with her homemade buns and vast recipe collection becoming family legends. Her home, decorated with a mix of antiques and original art, was a testament to her impeccable style. A woman of immense warmth and generosity, Kay had a smile that could light up a room. Her laughter, shared often with family and friends, was a source of comfort and joy. She was a devoted caregiver, always ready with a helping hand or a kind word, embodying a servant's heart in every aspect of her life. A service to celebrate Kay's life will be held on July 4, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Eastgate Funeral Home, 3117 E Century Ave, Bismarck ND 58503. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Edgewood Vista and Caring Edge Hospice for their compassionate care during Kay's final months. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kay's memory may be made to support young women's education, a cause close to her heart. Kay's life was a testament to love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.