Paul David Wiggin

Paul David Wiggin passed away on December 12, 2025, leaving behind a life defined by integrity, wisdom, humility, and leadership by example. Paul's legacy spans nearly seven decades in the game of football, but his greatest and most enduring legacy was the family he loved so deeply.

Born with a quiet strength and a deep sense of purpose, Paul distinguished himself early as both an athlete and a leader. He attended Stanford University, where he became an All-American and earned the respect of teammates, coaches, and alumni alike. In 1959, he was selected in the sixth round by the Cleveland Browns, launching a professional playing career during one of football's toughest and most demanding eras.

After his years as a player, Paul transitioned seamlessly into coaching and football operations, where his influence grew even stronger. Over his career, Paul served the game as a player, coach, mentor, and executive. He worked for the Minnesota Vikings organization for 40 years, where he became a steady and trusted presence, known for his football acumen, calm leadership, and unwavering character. Across every role he held, Paul earned respect through consistency, preparation, and principle.

Paul believed leadership was not something you claimed-it was something you lived. He always led by example, holding himself to the same standards he expected of others. Players, colleagues, and friends alike knew him as a man of great integrity and wisdom, someone whose guidance carried weight because it was grounded in experience, fairness, and care for people.

While football was an important part of Paul's life, his family was his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Carolynn, beginning a partnership that would last just shy of 70 years. Together, they built a home filled with mutual respect and love.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Carolynn; his daughters Kymberly Eide (Barry), Kristyn Baker (Jeff), and Kellie Sorenson (Glen); his 11 grandchildren; and his four great-grandchildren, a sister, Patricia Faria, and a brother, Donald Wiggin. He took immense pride in each generation, offering steady guidance, quiet encouragement, and unconditional love.

Paul David Wiggin will be remembered not simply for his accomplishments in football, but for the way he lived his life-with humility, strength, and purpose. His example as a husband, father, grandfather, leader, and friend will continue to guide those who were fortunate enough to know him.

His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the values he instilled, and the family he cherished above all else.

A Celebration of Life is planned on January 14, 2026, at 11:00 am at Wooddale Church - 6630 Shady Oak Rd. Eden Prairie, MN 55344

Livestream: https://www.wooddale.org/events

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Bridging, or a charity or organization that is meaningful to you.

https://bridging.org/donate/