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BORN
1934
DIED
2024
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Peter Paulsen Obituary
June 17, 1934 - July 17, 2024
Phoenix, Arizona - Builder, Developer, Philanthropist, Passes away at age 90.
Peter Helmuth Paulsen was born in the village of Shcardebüll, Northern Germany, June 17, 1934.
Peter immigrated to the Midwest in 1952 with his Mother and his brother, after the hardships and turmoil of WWII. At the age of 17 was already a master mason brick layer. With his keen business sense and outstanding quality of construction, he quickly aspired to starting his own business, building brick homes and apartment complexes in Moline, Illinois.
In the mid 1960's Peter and his family moved to Northern California, where he continued building homes, business complexes. He owned and operated Commerce Security Bank in Sacramento, and condominiums, and was also a highly successful investor.
In Bellingham, Washington, Peter built more business complexes and The Hotel Bellwether, a European style hotel and helped enhance the Port of Bellingham waterfront.
Peter throughout his life always contributed back to his communities and through his "Peter and Diana Paulsen Foundation" he and his wife Diana continue to give to charities and hospitals enhancing the lives of others.
Recently he contributed $60,000,000 to the Peace Health, St. Joseph Medical Center for a building extension named Peter Paulsen Pavilion.
The Peter Paulsen Stage, Bellingham Food Bank, Boys and Girls Club of Whatcom County, and Skookum Kids, are also recipients of their generosity.
Throughout the years, Peter enjoyed boating on his beautiful yachts named "Freya". He loved classical music, dancing, traveling the world with friends and family.
Peter is survived by his lovely wife Diana and five children; Veronica, Susan, Lisa, Peter Andreas and Lauren.
Celebration of Life will be held at the Christ Lutheran Church, 3901 E. Indian School Road, Phx, AZ, on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with reception with food to follow. The event will be recorded for viewing.
Call Susan at 530-570-6300 for further info.
Peter will be dearly missed by all, and now in heaven, he dances with the angels.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Peter Paulsen
christina Bryngelson
February 17, 2025
So sorry to hear this news. I would see Peter around the Biltmore over the years always smiling and enjoying himself. A great human.
Paul and Judy Wolf
August 6, 2024
Werner Judith and I were sadden to hear of the passing of your father. Rest assured that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Rene Lange
July 31, 2024
My sincere condolences to the family. I met Peter decided I was the one to open Zazen Salon Spa at the Bellwether. Peter was a sweet and kind man. Always a fun happy hour. May he rest in peace! But if we all know Peter he has plans to build something new up there. Pleasure knowing him....bless you.
Dorothea Wilson
July 29, 2024
Thank You from Bellingham. What a wonderful example of a kind honorable man. Love to the family.
F
July 28, 2024
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Maria and Brett Daley
July 28, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always, Peter. You will be forever in our hearts
Robin & Fahri
July 28, 2024
Dear entire Paulsen family,
So sorry to hear the loss of Peter. Having met Peter about 30 years ago in Phoenix, and then moving here to help him with the Hotel Bellwether, Peter had amazing leadership and inspiration for all. Our sympathy and thoughts are with your family.
James Trotter
July 28, 2024
I wrote and directed two TV commercials for Peter for the Hotel Bellwether. He was such a smart and charming gentleman to work with. His energy levels and the twinkle in his eye (for life) were hallmarks I remember. May there be a yacht waiting for him in Heaven.
James Trotter
Barbara Eusey
July 25, 2024
Didi and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Peter was a legend and was soooo loved! We will miss all of the fun memories that we had with him, dancing on his boat, dinners catching up together, meeting at Bayside restaurant and Balboa Bay Club for drinks, visiting he and Didi in Arizona! Sending you all love and prayers! Peter you will forever be missed by so many! Love, Barbara and Chuck Eusey
Jill Incarnati (previously McKay)
July 23, 2024
My deepest condolences to Diana and all of Peter´s family! God bless you during this difficult time. I was fortunate enough to have Peter as my neighbor on the Biltmore Circle! I have so many fond memories of Peter! His perpetual smile and ENERGY were contagious! However, I don´t really know of anyone who could actually keep up with him! I have fond memories of Peter DANCING on Freya, DANCING to a Mariachi band in Puerta Vallarta, DANCING to the song HOT, HOT, HOT wherever and whenever he heard that song being played. Peter loved life! He was so kind and generous to his family and friends! Peter was an incredible host and always had friends over for BBQ´s and holiday dinners. Most Friday nights were always special at the McKay house, 2 doors down from Peter´s house, where "happy hour" would last much longer than one hour! I recently visited Peter, and although he wasn´t dancing, I know he is dancing with the angels! Heaven fills his eyes now that he is dancing with the angels!
Jill Incarnati (previously McKay)
Linda Rigg. Bob Whiton
July 21, 2024
We are neighbors of Peter & Diana in Newport Beach. We loved getting to know them as a couple. Peter was an awesome individual and we read his book. What an incredible, inspiring life he lead. He was so accomplished in many areas. He and Bob had fun sharing Iowa stories. Peter will be terribly missed. His zest for life and optimism were an inspiration to all of us. With love and condolences. Linda Rigg & Bob Whiton
Bill McKay
July 21, 2024
I am truly sorry for the loss of Peter. His vibrant energy, positive attitude, friendly personality, and sharp business acumen will be greatly missed. Prayers for DeDe and his children to stay strong and celebrate his life.
Bill McKay
Robert Robinson
July 21, 2024
What a great life he forged starting out as a stone mason. His accomplishments in life were amazing. He will be missed by all who knew him. RIP.
Nancy Wolfe
July 21, 2024
My deepest condolence to Dede and family
Nancy Wolfe
July 21, 2024
My deepest condolences on your huge loss. Peter will be missed hugely.
Nancy Wolfe
July 21, 2024
He was very kind, generous and a brilliant man. He will be missed hugely by all who knew him.
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Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home4800 East Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018
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