Paul Fredrickson

Paul Arnold Fredrickson, 84 years young, of Ottertail, Minnesota, passed away on April 13, 2026, in Fargo, North Dakota, surrounded by his wife and children, and held in the love of his entire family.

Paul was born on February 7, 1942, in Crookston, Minnesota. He grew up in Crookston before moving to Ada, Minnesota, where he graduated from high school. He then attended Vocational Technical School in Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

He proudly served in the United States Army for three years before beginning a career in sales with White Drug. Paul had a dream to own a farm where he could raise a family, which he accomplished in both Underwood and Ottertail, Minnesota. He also spent many years in farm sales until his retirement. No matter the role, Paul approached his work with dedication, integrity, and a strong work ethic, always putting his heart into what he did and showing a deep respect for the people he served.

In 1966, at a dance in Moorhead, Minnesota, Paul met Carol Butler. He took one look and knew she would be his wife. Together, they built a life that spanned 58 years of marriage—filled with love, strong family values, and a family that was truly his greatest blessings.

He taught his children and grandchildren the value of family, hard work, a little mischief, and a deep respect for nature. He led by example, showing through his actions what it meant to care deeply, work hard, and find joy in the simple moments. His lessons were lived, not just spoken.

Paul was a man of quiet strength, known for his patience, steady presence, and his favorite phrase—“just one more.” He truly loved life, whether it was one more game, one more time hunting, or one more moment spent fishing with family on the northern lakes of Minnesota. He loved his farm deeply—tending the lawn, deer stands, or working in the shop. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, from the Black Hills to the deserts, ghost towns, and goldmines of the Southwest, or simply going for a drive to take in the scenery. Through it all, his greatest love was always his family, teaching them to fish, hunt, explore, and sharing those moments together.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Carol; his children, Wendy Gores; Paula (Troy) Herding; and Steven (Stephanie) Fredrickson; six grandchildren, Amber (Matt), Victoria, Alan (Marcia), Brenden, Gabby (Jaxon), and Isaac (Lacole); and four great-grandchildren, Lowell, Waverly, Lilith, and River.

He is also survived by his siblings, Karen (Donny), Mike (Collette), and Ken (Karol), along with many extended family members who were part of his life.

Paul passed peacefully with Carol, Wendy, Paula, Steven, and Stephanie by his side, after fighting for one more day, one more conversation, and one more moment together.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at the Fredrickson Family Farm.

His legacy of faith, family, fun, love, and living life will be deeply missed.