Paul D. Hommerding

Paul Donald Hommerding, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on March 20, 1949, in Saint Cloud, Minnesota, Paul leaves behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, and enduring relationships that will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched. Paul graduated from St. Cloud State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and Business Management, and soon after, began his career with Donald DeLaria at Kentucky Fried Chicken in the Twin Cities. In 1973, he married the love of his life, Diane. This August, they would have celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary—a testament to their love and commitment to each other.

In 1979, Paul and Diane relocated to Alexandria, MN to begin operations as KFC franchisees. For 39 years, they operated restaurants in Minnesota and North Dakota, alongside their children, embodying Paul’s motto of being in the “people business that just happened to sell chicken.” He created lifelong relationships with team members and customers alike, always treating everyone with kindness and respect.

In retirement, Paul enjoyed visiting with friends at Arrowwood Deck Bar, Interlachen Inn, and Stan's Idle Hour. He was able to begin a chat with a stranger leaving them with many of his “words of wisdom.” He’d often be found dancing to the tunes of “Run Around Sue” and “Wagon Wheel,” and reveling in the sounds of musical legends like Patsy Cline and Andrea Bocelli. He was often heard exclaiming, “Turn this one up!” as he enjoyed the music. Paul and Diane enjoyed traveling to beautiful destinations around the world and embraced countless motorcycle adventures, with a deep love for the roads and scenery of the Black Hills of South Dakota. Paul treasured family above all else. He loved the great outdoors and literally had a fire to sit by any chance he was able. Paul lived by his favorite motto: “Nobody can have more fun in this life than you.” His belief in hard work and helping those in need was a guiding principle throughout his life. A private funeral mass celebrating Paul's life will be held at St. Mary’s Church, where Father Matthew Kuhn will officiate. Details of Paul’s Celebration of Life, regarding the location, date and time will be announced soon.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Father Matthew Kuhn at St. Mary's Church, the incredible nurses and care takers at Hospice of Douglas County, and the countless friends and family whose support has meant everything during this difficult time. Paul will be missed dearly but remembered fondly by all those whose lives he touched. Rest easy, Bird Man.

Paul is survived by his loving wife Diane; sons Noah (Angela) Hommerding and Luke (Adrienne) Hommerding; daughters Stephanie (Orson) Opheim and Amanda Hommerding; and an ever-growing family that includes five grandchildren, Evelyn, Liberty, Eli, Owen, and Leo; with a new grandchild on the way this October; brothers, Dan (Linda) Hommerding, James Hommerding, and Joseph (Joann) Hommerding; sisters, Julie Soderberg, Kitty Zak, and Susan (Brian Laing) Hommerding.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Aloysius and Dolores (Nolen) Hommerding, brother Tom Hommerding, and his sisters Mary Hommerding and Anita Russell.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Catholic Relief Services at CRS.ORG