Paulette Joy Butenhoff

Paulette Joy (Lunday) Butenhoff, 73, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, at her residence at Eventide Sheyenne Crossings in West Fargo, ND.

Paulette was born on April 10, 1952, in Fargo, ND to John Lunday Jr. and Beverly Joycelyn (Ziner) Lunday. She was raised in North Fargo and graduated from Fargo North High School in 1970. On December 7, 1973, she married David Butenhoff, and together they were blessed with one son, Paul.

Following high school, Paulette worked as a CNA at St. Luke’s Hospital and Bethany Homes. After her marriage, she and David made their home on a farm southwest of Barnesville. Paulette continued her nursing work at the Barnesville Nursing Home until the birth of their son, at which point she dedicated herself fully to being a stay-at-home mom and farm wife.

Paulette had been told she may never have children, so the arrival of her son Paul was nothing short of a miracle—and he quickly became the center of her world. Their bond was unbreakable, and she was a loving, supportive, and nurturing mother whose impact will never be forgotten.

Later in life, Paulette faced some health challenges. She eventually returned to North Fargo before moving into assisted living, first in Hawley and Moorhead, and finally at Eventide Sheyenne Crossings in West Fargo.

Paulette found great joy in spending time with her family and friends. She loved summers at the lake and winter ski trips with her family, especially to Spirit Mountain, Duluth, MN, and Big Sky, Montana. A longtime fan of country music, she enjoyed attending country music concerts the first few years of WE Fest, along with concerts at the Fargodome and the Red River Valley Fair. She also had a passion for shopping—whether for clothing, home furnishings, or her favorite: antiques.

Animals held a special place in Paulette’s heart, especially cats. Over the years, she cared for several pets, including dogs, parakeets, and multiple cats, often having two feline companions at a time.

Paulette is survived by her son, Paul Butenhoff of Moorhead, MN; and her beloved granddaughters, Molly and Ava Butenhoff. She is also survived by her siblings: Vicki (Rod) Stainbrook of Butte, MT; John Lunday III of Fargo, ND; Sharon (Alan) Watson of Buxton, ND; Todd Lunday of Fargo, ND; and Lisa (Gary) Noyes of Dilworth, MN; along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Lunday Jr. and Beverly Joycelyn Lunday.

The family would like to thank Eventide Sheyenne Crossings and the wonderful staff that treated her like family, and Ethos Hospice.