Neal E. Paulsen

Neal Edward Paulsen, 95, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at the Monticello Nursing and Rehab.

His family has granted his wishes of a private graveside service at the Clay Cemetery in rural Onslow.

Neal was born on the home farm in Scotch Grove to Edward and Mabel (Hicks) Paulsen on November 4, 1928. He was baptized on July 23, 1929. He attended county school in Scotch Grove #6 and #7, one year in Onslow and graduated from Monticello Public High School in 1945. As the passing of his father in 1946 Neal became an early farmer, helping his siblings. He met his wife at a dance, they were later married on July 11, 1949. They had five children, four daughters and one son. Together they did all of the farming until they retired and their son Neal and grandson Alex took over. Neal was a 4-H Leader for the Onslow Corn Huskers. Neal was an outstanding young farmer, he belonged to the Jones County Cattleman’s Association. He was president for several years and was later inducted into the Cattleman’s Hall of Fame. He enjoyed the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals baseball, NASCAR racing, Bluegrass festivals and going to his kids sporting events. Neal was a wonderful husband, dad, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great grandfather and he will be dearly missed by many.

Surviving are his wife JoAnn of 75 years, children; Connie (Sal) Cardile, Vickie (Arnold) Ayala, Janeal Paulsen, Jackee (Keith) Dirks, Neal “Kirby” (Sheila) Paulsen, 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren, brother Larry Paulsen and sister Judy (David) Benda and 5 nephews and 3 nieces.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents and parents.

Neal’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Above and Beyond Hospice for the great care they gave to him.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to a charity of your choice in his honor.

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