Jerry (Jake) Howard Paulson, 64, of Cumberland passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Mayo Clinic Health System after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born May 1, 1960, in Rice Lake, WI to John and Genevieve (Wiesner) Paulson. He was married at Augustana Lutheran Church in Cumberland on July 20, 1985, to the love of his life, Susie Kraft.

Jerry grew up in Cumberland and worked at Seneca, then Island City Produce for a number of years, and then at Jennie-O Turkey Store for the last 26 years of his career.

He loved hunting, fishing, camping, farming, and vegetable and flower gardens. Jerry was the Dahlia King. Most of all he cherished spending time with his family and grandchildren. Jerry was the go-to-guy when anyone needed some creativity poured into any project, repair, or invention. He put the “Jerry” in Jerry-rigged! He had a great sense of humor and was always ready with a witty comeback. He took great pride in a job well-done and in serving the needs of others.

He is survived by his wife, Susie; cherished daughters: Heather Paulson, and Sara (Jayson) Oratch; treasured grandchildren: Noah and Henry Oratch; mother, Genevieve Paulson; brothers: John (Patti), and Jason (Mitzie); sister, Linda; mother-in-law, Joan Kraft; brother-in-law, Brian (Stacy) Kraft; niece, Anya Kraft; nephews: Jordan Feidt, Kailan Kraft, Paul and John Jr. Paulson. Jerry was preceded in death by his father, John; brother, James; and father-in-law, Dennis Kraft.

A service for family and friends will be held at 3:30 PM Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home in Cumberland at which time will be open to share stories and memories of Jerry. Visitation will be from 1-3:30 PM Saturday, January 18, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be written out to Susie Paulson to help the family cover funeral and medical expenses.

Last Update: Jan 10, 2025 1:24 pm CST