Obituary of Richard Albert Paul

With heavy hearts, we announce that Richard Albert Paul, age 93 of Cologne, MN peacefully passed away on Sunday July 30, 2023 at Ridgeview Medical Center in Waconia. Richard was born January 18, 1930 in Cologne, MN to Otto Albert and Amelia Caroline (Bleichner) Paul. Richard was the youngest of five boys.

Grandpa was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a man whose vibrant soul left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He married the love of his life Lorna on April 30, 1955. Grandpa’s life was filled with passion, adventure, and a profound love for all that he held dear. His spirit was ignited by the simple joys of life and appreciation for the love of God. He found his true happiness working on his farm, tending to his cows, and nurturing the land that he lived on for over 90 years.

Rich’s talents extended far beyond the fields and his companionship with animals, as he found purpose working on and collecting antiques. His affinity for restoring cars and tractors not only showcased his mechanical prowess but also his persistence to find solutions in the face of challenges. The revving engines were a symphony of his determination, echoing through the years as a reminder that with skill and perseverance, any obstacle could be overcome. Grandpa always had a love for history. He not only lived through difficult hardships but was a part of history himself. The memory and legacy he left behind will never be forgotten.  

Grandpa Rich worked for Minneapolis Moline in Hopkins, MN where his love and passion for collecting Minneapolis Moline memorabilia began. One of his favorite things to do was to show everyone his collections in his history room. He continued to acquire new pieces to his extraordinary collection up until the day of his death. Grandpa Rich retired from the telephone company and enjoyed traveling with friends and family, including one of his favorite countries, Germany, where he could revel in his German heritage. He enjoyed speaking the German language with his family, friends and neighbors.

But perhaps one of the greatest legacies Rich leaves behind is the art of storytelling. His eyes would light up, and a mischievous grin would appear across his face as he regaled his audience with tales of his travels and friendships along the way. Grandpa’s stories were a true treasure that brought joy and wisdom to his family and friends.

As we say our final goodbyes, let us remember him not with sadness, but with gratitude for the incredible journey he shared with us all. We pray that he continues to watch over us with kindness and love as he will forever guide us on our lifelong venture until we meet again in heaven. May the timeless wisdom of grandpa eternally mold us into the individuals we’ve become. As we bid farewell to a life well-lived, let us honor his memory and raise a shot of tequila in celebration, just as he reveled in sharing this cherished drink with friends, family, and guests.

Rest in peace Grandpa, your spirit will forever resonate in the fields, the stories, the roads, and the hearts you’ve touched.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Otto and Amelia Paul; brothers Stanley, Joseph, Norman, and Albert Paul; sister-in-law’s Marge and Betty Paul; nieces and nephews Jim Paul, Ron Paul, Amy Schaaf, Nancy Mau, Darlene Amrhein, Gordy Hennen, Sharon Endres, Charles Hennen, Steve Schneider, Lynn Hauer; mother-in-law and father-in-law Emma and Frank Hennen; brother and sister-in-law’s Ervin and Lillian Hennen, Melvin and Donna Hennen, Phyllis Hennen, Paul and Lu Rosen, Roger and Lolly Marschall, Bill and Nelly Hauer, Frank and Bea Krittenbrink, Mary and Roman Schesso, Rose Hennen, and Ron Schneider; Son-in-law Brian Johnson.

Richard is survived by his loving family: wife Lorna Paul; children Cindy and Randy Lano, Bill Paul, Sue (Paul) Weinzierl and Brian Weinzierl, Ann (Paul) Johnson and friend Jeff Thom; grandchildren Dan and Cameo Lano, Anna Lano, Brandon and Nina Weinzierl, Bradley and Danielle Weinzierl, Brooke Weinzierl, Austin and Jackie Johnson, Blake Johnson and Courtney Bruesehoff; great-grandchildren Paxton Weinzierl, Harper and Hudson Weinzierl; brother and sister-in-law’s Luella Paul, Mildred Paul, Bob Hennen, Janice and Dick Hennen, Sister Lalande Hennen SSND, Joann Schneider; other relatives, neighbors and friends.

Richard Paul will be buried with his wife Lorna when God calls her to join him in heaven.

Respectfully written and submitted by grandchildren Anna, Austin, and Brooke