Paul Milton Ness

Paul Milton Ness, a visionary photographer and a man of profound devotion to his family, passed away on February 22, 2026. He was born at the family home in Hendricks, Minnesota on August 13, 1931 to Bertha and Ole Ness. He served in the US Army Signal Corps from 1952-1954.

Paul spent nearly a half-century capturing memorable moments and teaching others how to cherish the people they love most. Paul's career was defined by his artistry and his desire to see others succeed. After building a successful studio in his hometown of Hendricks, Paul joined Eastman Kodak in 1964. There, he transitioned from a gifted portrait photographer into a marketing leader, developing "Business Marketing Practices" and the very notable "The Times of Your Life" campaign that helped professional photographers across the country grow their own legacies.

His peers recognized him as a true leader within the professional photographic industry. Paul was a member of the elite Camera Craftsmen of America organization and earned many prestigious distinctions including Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman.

While his professional accolades were many, Paul's greatest pride was his nearly 74-year marriage to his beloved wife, Gwendolyn. Paul presented Gwendolyn a box of chocolates when he was in the fifth grade. She was the new girl in town and he quickly chose her. Their enduring partnership was the bedrock of a large and loving family.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Joe and Omer. He is survived by Gwendolyn and their children and spouses: Lynn and Clint, Paula and Mark, and Jason and Stacy. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren - Sarah, Laura, Ryan, Ian, Taylor, and Holly - and his adored great-grandchildren, Jackson, Tenley, Sophia, and Samuel.

The family would like to thank Paul's loving and devoted caregivers Ralph, CJ, Reggie, Kelly and Claudia, who made it possible for him to enjoy his final years at home.

A service to celebrate Paul's life will be held at 10 am on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the funeral chapel (2305 Monroe Avenue).

In lieu of flowers or traditional memorials, the family requests that you honor Paul in the way he would have valued most: Schedule a portrait session with the people you love. Paul spent his life ensuring that memories were preserved; there is no better tribute to his life than to capture a permanent image of your own family's "times of your life."