Paul L. Chelmo

Paul L. Chelmo, 81, Detroit Lakes, MN, died Sunday, March 2, 2025, in his residence surrounded by family and under care of Hospice.

Paul Leroy Chelmo was born in Minneapolis, MN, on July 29, 1943, to Joseph and Harriet (Knouse) Chelmo. They lived next to the fire station and would often visit the station to watch their TV with the fire crew. At the age of 18, Paul began working for Burlington Northern as a Brakeman. Paul began to make candy dippers in 1965, which he sold to “Maid of Scandinavia” and continued to supply the company until 1980.

On January 16, 1966, Paul was united in marriage to Lorena Schnitzus in Minneapolis. That same year, they moved to Detroit Lakes along with Paul’s brothers, James “Nate” and Jerome Chelmo. Together, they purchased trucks from Howe and Jensen to haul milk for North Star Dairy. When the dairy closed, they began hauling turkeys for Swift and Company. In 1972, Paul and Jerome built their first turkey barn and began raising turkeys for Swift. Paul expanded and had the north farm on Richwood Road. He retired from the railroad after 30 years. 

Paul always loved the railroad and riding the rails. This past January, Paul and Lorena hopped on the train to celebrate 60 years of marriage. They traveled by rail to Seattle, WA, enjoying each other’s company and taking in the scenery along the way. Truly a trip that marked a milestone in their lives, but also so much meaning to Paul. 

During his spare time, Paul loved going out for a drive around the countryside. He was proud to have visited all 50 states. Living in the lakes area, Paul enjoyed hunting and fishing. While wintering in Arizona, he loved riding his ATV in the Yuma desert. He enjoyed a good cup of coffee, and the occasional ice cream treat from Dairy Queen. Paul was quiet in nature but always had the best “one-liners” to lighten the mood. 

Paul will be remembered and missed by his wife of 60 years, Lorena; daughter, Lisa (Jon) Snover, son, Brian (Lori) Chelmo; five grandchildren, Ashley (Stephen) Boatman, Arron (Karina) Chelmo, Olivia Snover, Warren Snover and Elyse Snover; two great-grandchildren, Alexander and Theodore Boatman; one brother, Jerome (Patricia) Chelmo; brother-in-law, Richard (JoAnne) Schnitzus; sisters-in-law, Darlene Halonen and LuAnn Anderson; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harriet and Joseph; three brothers, William “Bill” (Winifred) Chelmo, Sidney (Pearl) Chelmo, and James (Juanita) Chelmo; three sisters, Joann (Ernie) Pyle, Carol (Jerry) Dudley and Dolores (Daryl) Anderson; and sister-in-law, Renee Chelmo.

Funeral service for Paul will be Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 1PM in Community Alliance Church, Detroit Lakes, MN. Visitation will be at the church one-hour prior.

Arrangements entrusted to Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service of Moorhead, MN. Online guestbook and condolences can be shared at www.korsmofuneralservice.com