Dorothy Ann Paulsen

COLERIDGE — Dorothy Ann Paulsen, 75, Coleridge, died Jan. 9, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center, Sioux City, Iowa, after suffering a stroke. Visitation was Friday, at the church, with a Vigil Service. Visitation continued Saturday one hour prior to services at the church. Cremation will occur after the funeral and burial of her cremated remains will be at a later date at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Coleridge, Mass of Christian Burial was Jan. 13 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Coleridge, with the Rev. David Liewer officiating. Pallbearers were Dorothy’s grandchildren: Jessamie Schulze, Samantha Hamik, Nick Bierschenk, Ashley Bierschenk, Lauren Bierschenk, Sadie Paulsen, Dalie Paulsen, Lane Paulsen, and Greyson Neal. Arrangements were under the direction of the Wintz Funeral Home, Coleridge. Dorothy Ann Paulsen was born Dec.2, 1942, in Sioux City, to John and Mildred (Miller) Pfund. She grew up on a farm west of Coleridge and graduated from Coleridge High School in 1960. Dorothy then went to Stewart’s Hairstyling School, Sioux City. She married Duane Bierschenk and they moved to Lead, S.D. After Duane died Oct. 18, 1966, Dorothy moved back to Coleridge. She then married Larry Paulsen Sept. 12, 1970. Dorothy worked at the Broadway Tavern as a cook and waitress while working at their farm operation. Dorothy was a member of the St. Michael’s Catholic Church. She enjoyed being with her children and grandchildren. She loved riding her Harley trike, playing cards, cooking and baking. She and Larry have been active in the local Legion Riders Organization. Dorothy was the “Secret Santa” in Coleridge for many years providing needy families with acts of kindness and presents. Dorothy is survived by her husband, Larry, Coleridge; four children and spouses, Monte and Melissia Bierschenk, Marietta, Okla.; Kevin and Cindy Bierschenk, Eastman, Ga.; Loren and Desiree Paulsen, Coleridge; Kayla and David Neal, Atlanta, Ga.; and nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren, Lucas Schulze and Harleigh Hamik; one brother, Dr. Don (Nancy) Pfund, Spirit Lake, Iowa; one sister Darlene (Dallas) Puntney, Stromsburg. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Duane Bierschenk; and a brother, Duane Pfund.