Barry Pausch

1958 - 2024

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Barry, who left us on Sept. 4, 2024 at the age of 66. A Time to Gather will be held on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024 from 2-4 p.m. with a Celebration of Life at 4:00 p.m. at Terrace Lanes, Wahpeton, North Dakota. A devoted family man, Barry was a shining light in our lives; not only for his unwavering love and devotion but also for his incredible passion for bowling, farming, hunting, fishing and being a business owner.

Born on March 14, 1958 in Breckenridge, Minn. to Jerry and Kathy Pausch, Barry was the third born of six children. He discovered his love for bowling and farming at a young age, both of which he continued throughout his life. Barry graduated from Wahpeton High School, Class of 1976, and continued his education at NDSCS in Agriculture/Farm Management and graduated in 1978. During that time, Barry worked for Rick's Electric, Terrace Lanes and farmed with his dad. After college and turning 21, he managed the Oasis Bar in Wahpeton, eventually taking it over in 1994 from his father. Barry happily owned and operated the family bar from 1994 to 2019.

Barry was a skilled bowler, receiving numerous accolades and trophies in local leagues and even earning a shot at the Olympic Bowling Team at the age of 35. Barry passed his knowledge, skills and legacy onto his sons, Matt and Jamie, whom he took great pride in not only watching them follow in his footsteps as bowlers, but also getting to compete alongside them in many tournaments.

Barry spent a majority of his life cultivating both the land and hearts around him. He was a dedicated farmer who poured his soul into every acre he tended, growing not only crops but also a reputation as being dependable, hard-working, and devoted to his craft and those he worked with. In later years, he also found great joy in hauling grain and beets for local farmers.

Beyond the alley, the farm and the bar, Barry was a man of many interests. He cherished time spent with family, whether at home, on vacation, hunting, fishing, or bowling. Dad was a sucker for custard pie, divinity, holidays together and a game of cards. He was also a lover of naps and endless snuggles with his grandchildren.

One of the most profound legacies Barry left behind was his decision to be an organ donor. He believed in the power of giving and the importance of helping others, even in death. His selfless act will continue to touch lives and inspire hope in many families.

Barry is survived by his children, Jenny Bleick, Jamie (Jodie) Frankl, Jody Oswalt (Ryan Fenske) and Matt Pausch. Special friend, Tammy Grondahl. His grandchildren Priscilla, Wyatt, Colton, Kinley, Emrie, Mateland, Michael, Klara, Karter, Macie, Mirabella and Jace. Also, his siblings, Jeff (Karen) Pausch, Andrea Freeman, Tim (Kathy) Pausch, Jill (Joe) Dosouto. Plus, his special birthday twin, Franchesca (Dosouto) Jones and his pudelpointer, Tikka; each of whom will continue to carry a piece of him in their hearts till they see him again.

Barry was met in Heaven by his parents Jerry and Kathy Pausch, his grandparents, granddaughter Alexis Frankl and his closest friends, Rodney ""Rod"" Nordick, Jon ""Vonnie"" Von Hagen and Frank ""Frankie"" Barton.