Delmer D. Paulsen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024. Born on December 16, 1936, in New Underwood, South Dakota, Delmer was the cherished son of Ben and Martha (Koopman) Paulsen.

Delmer spent his early years on farms near Wicksville, Owanka, and New Underwood before the family moved to a large stock ranch near Quinn, South Dakota, in 1949. In 1952, Delmer moved to the farm and ranch his parents purchased, which would ultimately become his own place. It was in Quinn where Delmer’s love for farming and ranching began to flourish. He graduated from Quinn High School in 1954, where he was an avid basketball player for the Quinn Tuplets.

After high school, Delmer served his country with honor as a combat medic in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Germany for two years and later continued his service in the Army Reserve for an additional four years. After he completed his service, he became a member of VFW post 9120 of Quinn, SD. Upon leaving active duty, Delmer moved to Rapid City, where he worked for Pete Lien & Sons and served as a security guard during the construction of the Minuteman II missile sites.

In 1965, Delmer married Mary Alice Allbee of Maple Lake, MN and together they purchased the family’s farm and ranch, a place where they would raise their four children: David, Darren, Lynn, and Thomas. Delmer's dedication to farming was evident in the numerous accolades he received, including the Outstanding Young Farmer Award in 1970 and the prestigious South Dakota Farm Family of the Year Award in 1972. Delmer took pride in raising registered Hereford cattle for many years.

Delmer’s passion for snowmobiling began in 1972 when he purchased his first snowmobile, an Arctic Cat Panther. This purchase ignited a lifelong love for the sport, and Delmer remained an active participant in snowmobiling for the next 50 years. He was a proud member of the South Dakota Snowmobile Association for 40 years and was honored in the February 2019 issue of Sno Plainsman as one of the oldest SDSA members in the state.

Approximately 12 years ago, Delmer retired from the daily operations of the farm and ranch. He continued to reside on the farmstead, where he oversaw the land now rented to neighbors. He remained deeply connected to the land and community that had been such a significant part of his life.

Delmer is survived by his wife, Mary Paulsen, three children: Darren Paulsen (Jackie Jira) and their sons Dawson and Dreyson of Rapid City, SD; Lynn Blaseg (Mike) and their daughters Hannah and Callie of Colorado Springs, CO; and Tom Paulsen of Lead, SD. He is also remembered fondly by his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and his son, David.

Delmer’s legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for his family and community will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed.

Visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

Mass of Christian Burial was held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Wall with Father Jonathan Dillon as celebrant.

Interment with military honors followed at the Wall Cemetery.

Cards and memorials can be sent to:
528 44th Street
Rapid City, SD 57702