Frederick J. Paulsen

Frederick J. Paulsen obituary

Frederick J. Paulsen

Frederick Paulsen Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home on Aug. 11, 2025.

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Fredrick John Paulsen, 72, of Coloma, Michigan passed away on Wednesday, August 6th at his home. Fred was born on January 16th, 1952 in Benton Harbor, Michigan to Donald and Dorothy Paulsen. Fred spent his early years in Benton Harbor and moved to Dowagiac during his time in high school. He received his undergraduate degree from Northern Montana and his Master's Degree from the Sports Academy in Alabama. Fred's life revolved around sports, friends, and family. He was known as "Coach" to most people and took pride in that moniker, especially with his grandchildren. Fred is survived by his wife Marilyn, sons Paige and Spencer, grandchildren Christian, Ashton, Carter, Evan, and Tayler, brothers Dick and David, sisters Donna and Martha, and multiple nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Dorothy and his eldest son Derek. A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, August 12th from 5pm to 8pm at Beeches Golf Club, 09601 68th Street, South Haven, MI 49090. The celebration is a casual event where friends and family can share memories, tears, and laughs. Flowers can be given to the Beeches Golf Club and any perennials will be planted around the course and clubhouse. Monetary donations can be given to the family or venmo (MorganBossPaulsen). Donations will be used to support youth athletics, specifically his passions, golf and basketball. Those wishing to leave an online message of remembrance may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.

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August 13, 2025

Christopher Lucas posted to the memorial.

August 12, 2025

Ethan Dschaak posted to the memorial.

August 12, 2025

Ralph Newton posted to the memorial.

9 Entries

Christopher Lucas

August 13, 2025

Fred, what are you doing, man? Why are you leaving us so soon? We still had more golf to play and more basketball to catch up on. I know God needed you more than we did. We can all be a little selfish sometimes, and we are really going to miss you. Be sure to save us a spot so we can all enjoy each other's company again. My condolences to you and your family. Take care until we meet again.

Ethan Dschaak

August 12, 2025

Coach, you left a tremendous legacy behind. Not just because you were a great coach but also because you were a great guy. I will forever cherish our conversations. Rest in piece my friend.

Ethan Dschaak

Ralph Newton

August 12, 2025

Coach, I will forever cherish the countless memories that we shared over the years. Everything I did with/for you meant the world to me. From babysitting the boys to competing at Nationals to the team suppers we shared, each and every moment was a true gift. I am a bettter person because of YOU! Until we meet again RIP and thanks for the incredible memories. Love always, Ralph Newton

Vicky and Max Lindsay

August 12, 2025

We are deeply saddened to hear of Fred Paulsen´s passing. We first met Fred when he was hired as the basketball coach at ACC, and from the very beginning, it was clear what a passionate and dedicated person he was. When Marilyn, baby Derek and their dog Magic arrived shortly after, it felt like we spent every moment together - those early days were filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories.
Fred truly lived life to the fullest. His love for sports was only surpassed by the love he had for Marilyn and his sons. He was a loyal friend, a committed coach, and above all, a devoted husband and father. His enthusiasm, warmth, and big-hearted nature will be remembered by all who knew him.

Please accept our deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Love, Vicky and Max Lindsay

Wanda Gramkow

August 12, 2025

Sorry for your loss, Fred was such nice man and had a big heart. He will be missed by so many.

Monica Knuppe

August 12, 2025

Ken and I would like to extend our condolences to all of you, especially Spencer. I enjoyed working with Fred and he had a big influence on all of my children.

Jim Grannell

August 12, 2025

Very sorry for your loss! I met Fred for the first time in ninth grade via sports. (Fairplain) Was disappointed that he didn´t come to Benton Harbor from BH Jr. High so I could play basketball with him. Watched him play in Dowagiac in between our basketball schedules, hung out a few times in Sister Lakes, and met a few times while I was at MSU. Ironically, when there was some talk of him coming to Niles to coach, he would have coached my son. Absolutely great guy and respected his accomplishments. Great memories. Again, so sorry for your family´s loss!!!

Jim Grannell

Steve Schray

August 12, 2025

Prayers out to Marilyn and family from Steve and Paula Schray

Brock Rose

August 11, 2025

Sorry for the families loss, rest in peace coach!

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Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home

6548 Paw Paw Ave, Coloma, MI 49038

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Sign Frederick Paulsen's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 13, 2025

Christopher Lucas posted to the memorial.

August 12, 2025

Ethan Dschaak posted to the memorial.

August 12, 2025

Ralph Newton posted to the memorial.