Rachel Ann Paulson

Rachel Ann Paulson

Rachel Ann Paulson, age 55 of Madelia died peacefully with her family by her side on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the New Ulm Medical Center in New Ulm.

Rachel is survived by her husband, Brad Paulson of Madelia; her sisters, Roberta (Peter J.) Samson of St. Charles, Illinois, Renee Ellena of Blaine, Mary (Joseph) Ferris of Hibbing; her sisters-in-law, Dori (Greg) Hanson of Hutchinson, Bonnie Paulson of New Ulm; her brothers-in-law, Garry (Brenda) Paulson of New Ulm, David (Sue) Paulson of New Ulm, Daniel (Patty) Paulson of Hanska, Mike (Roxy) Paulson of Hanska, Wayne (Jill) Paulson of Hanska, Ron (Raquel) Paulson of Becker; her beloved cats; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Josephine Koenig; and her father-in-law, and mother-in-law, LaVerne and Margie Paulson.

Rachel Ann Koenig was born March 31, 1970, in Hibbing, Minnesota to Lawrence and Josephine (Kubalak) Koenig. Growing up on the Iron Range, Rachel was a 1988 graduate of Hibbing High School and a proud member of the HHS marching band. She continued her education at St. Cloud State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design. Rachel was united in marriage to Bradley "Brad" Paulson on December 7, 1996, at Lake Hanska Lutheran Church. Together the couple made their home in Madelia. Rachel built a long and dedicated 31-year career with Kraft Foods in New Ulm, where she served as the Quality Assurance Supervisor primarily responsible for formulation and was known for her steady work ethic and the friendships she formed along the way.

Rachel had an artistic spirit her entire life and loved to share her gifts with others. She enjoyed quilting, card making, drawing, painting, and crocheting countless handmade treasures that her family and friends will cherish for years to come. She and Brad also shared a love for travel. They traveled from coast to coast and everywhere in between, creating memories, exploring the beauty of the country's national parks, landmarks, and scenic roads. At home, Rachel found comfort in a good book, a new magazine, or a slow stroll through a fabric shop in search of her next project. Rachel's life was shaped by a strength and resilience that inspired everyone who knew her. For 18 years she faced ovarian cancer with courage, grace, and a quiet determination that never wavered. She continued to work, create, and live fully, refusing to let illness define her. Her unwavering hope and her ability to find joy, even on difficult days, will remain a lasting example to those she loved. Above all, Rachel was devoted to her family. She carried a deep love for Brad, and for the many relatives and friends who made her life rich and full. Her kindness, creativity, gentle humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed. Rachel leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and beauty that are woven into every stitch of her quilts, every card she crafted, every memory she helped create, and every life she touched. Those who knew her will forever remember the strength with which she lived and the grace with which she journeyed through her final years. Blessed be her memory.

Rachel's family would like to extend a personal thank you to the New Ulm Medical Center Oncology Team as well as Allina Hospice for the comfort and care they provided.

A memorial visitation will be held from 3-7 pm on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Minnesota Valley Funeral Home-South Chapel in New Ulm.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

To leave an online condolence for her family, or to sign the guestbook, go to: mvfh.org