Obituaries : Wayne Thomas Paulsen

Wayne Thomas Paulsen, 84, of Vinton, passed away peacefully on April 21st, surrounded by his loving family.

A private graveside service will be held for his family.  A celebration of life and luncheon will be held at Paulsen Automotive on June 13th, 2026, from 12-3:00 p.m. to honor Wayne.

Wayne was born on February 9, 1942, to Russell and Leona (Bossler) Paulsen. Wayne grew up on a farm near Keystone, Iowa. Wayne graduated from Van Horne High School in 1960 and went on to attend Universal Trade School in Omaha to study automotive repair. He was employed at many Benton County automotive shops before starting his own business, Paulsen Automotive, in Keystone, which he owned and operated for 32 years before retiring.

Wayne also served in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in England. Wayne and Phyllis enjoyed their time overseas and continued to enjoy traveling throughout their 62-year marriage.  Weekend camping trips and family vacations were past times Wayne also enjoyed.

Upon returning from England, Wayne and Phyllis built a home on an acreage near Wayne’s childhood home.  In 1977 and 1978, Wayne and Phyllis were blessed with their children Tammy (Franck) and Kurt Pauslen. Wayne was very proud of his children and loved them unconditionally. Wayne was blessed with five grandsons who were his pride and joy.  He always had them working in the yard, building in the woodshop, or taking tractor and hay rack rides outside.  He loved following their school activities and being part of their lives.  

Wayne had many gifts, but his hard-working hands were his greatest asset.  His strong and weathered hands provided for his family by fixing automobiles and crafting the most beautiful woodwork over the years.   His inventive, meticulous ways, and creative gifts could be seen throughout his woodshop and automotive shop.  Wayne took the most pride in his homestead alongside his wife, and together they created a beautiful acreage.  Wayne was known for his endless hours on a mower, and every blade of grass was manicured perfectly in addition to Phyllis’ gardens that were always in bloom. They made quite the team, and it was guaranteed to hear Wayne respond with “Yes, Dear” with his warm smile and gentle chuckle.  Many family events were held at their homestead as Wayne created a refuge, complete with a small campground, pond, and cabin. These memories will be cherished by friends and family forever.

Wayne is survived by his wife Phyllis, daughter Tammy (Robb) Franck, son Kurt (Amy) Paulsen, his grandchildren, Gage, Trey, and Jace Franck, Ayden and Kaleb Paulsen, and sister Jean (John) Moats,

Online condolences: www.phillipsfuneralhomes.com