Daniel "Smoothie" Paulson

Daniel “Smoothie” Paulson, 66, passed away Monday, July 29, 2024 at his home after a hard fought, 13 year battle with cancer. 

Born on June 23, 1958, in Mason City, Daniel Scott was the son of Keith C. and Jacqueline (Bowers) Paulson. The family initially lived on an acreage near Thornton. When he was in kindergarten, they moved to Clear Lake.

He attended Clear Lake High School before embarking on a fulfilling career. His journey began at the sale barn, followed by years in construction, including a notable stint at Water Tower Paint and Repair. He then joined Keith Paulson Construction, working alongside his father and brother, Dick. After Keith’s retirement, Dan took over the family business before transitioning to a role at 5 Star Co-Op in Ventura.

On June 28, 1996, Dan married Deb, and together they built a life full of love and laughter. They resided in Clear Lake for 20 years before moving to their beloved “Funny Farm” acreage outside of Klemme, where they spent over two decades creating cherished memories.

He delighted in riding his Harley and enjoyed camping, watching NASCAR and ice fishing, often accompanied by a cold Busch Light in hand. Dan took immense joy in participating in tractor rides and lending a hand to his neighbor, Brent, during harvest time. His love for life extended to his family, especially his grandchildren. As a fun-loving grandpa, he was known for his playful nicknames and enjoyed making every moment special.

Known affectionately as “Smoothie” among his friends for his card-playing skills, Dan had an infectious personality that brightened every gathering. His ability to bring joy to those around him and his zest for life will be deeply missed.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Deb; children, Danielle (Blake) Miller and Dustin Paulson and his fiancé, Alison Roe; Deb’s daughters, Nicole Ketchum and her husband, Marco Balderas and Rochelle Quiroz and her fiancé, Terry “TJ” Boyce; grandchildren, Alex and Aaron; Terrance, Marco, Aneesa and Adrian; Hailey and Aspen; and Kale, Ayla and Keith; siblings, Dick (LuAnne) Paulson and Roxanne (Joe) Dwyer; sister in law, Julie Mohler; and aunts, Patsy Benner, Donna Trebil and Julie Fountas; as well as his extended relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Jacqueline Paulson; grandparents; uncles, David Bowers, Bruce Trebil, and Vern Benner; and grandson, Manny Quiroz.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024 at the Clear Lake VFW, 219 Main Avenue, Clear Lake.  A brief service will be held at 1 p.m. and Dan’s family will greet relatives and friends following, from 1:30 until 4 p.m.

Ward Van Slyke is in charge of arrangements.