Virgil Paulsen was the youngest of seven children born to Fred and Lucille (Heinold) Paulsen, born December 4, 1944, in Norfolk, NE. Virgil died May 19, 2025, at his home in Carson, IA, at the age of 80 years, 5 months, and 15 days.

Virgil grew up in Stanton, NE, and pursued his passion for education by earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from Midland Lutheran College and a Master of Arts in Education from Wayne State College. He married Alison Spicer on February 14, 1965. After their marriage, Alison and Virgil lived in California before moving to Fremont, NE, and later to Decatur, NE, Norfolk, NE, and finally settling in Omaha. They moved to Carson, IA, after retirement.

Virgil dedicated over 20 years to teaching junior high and high school students, where he also coached football, wrestling, and track. As a pastor at Hastings church, he enjoyed leading Bible studies and volunteering in the community, most recently at Riverside School coaching shot put and discus. He also competed in Masters Track Meets until the age of 65.

Virgil was preceded in death by his parents and all of his six siblings; his wife Alison and his son-in-law John Spiering.

He is survived by his son Scott Paulsen of Houston, TX; daughter Kim Lee of Tekamah, NE; daughter Amy Spiering of Carson, IA; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at the Carson Community Building in Carson, IA. Rieken Vieth Funeral Home in Oakland is assisting the family.