Cynthia Paulson

Cynthia Elaine Paulson passed away peacefully on Sept. 7, 2024, at the age of 99. She was a wonderful mother, wife, sister and friend, who was always there when loved ones needed her most, offering support, wisdom and love in abundance. Cindy’s optimism and positive spirit were unwavering, touching the lives of all who knew her. She was full of life, love, humor, wit and laughter, always ready with a smile or a helping hand. Cindy had a great love for music and could play almost any song on the piano by ear. She played her keyboard often, even in her last days, playing a wide variety of songs, everything from “Amazing Grace” to “Oh Lord it’s Hard to be Humble”. Even now, she is probably playing the piano, entertaining Jesus and all that have gone before her. What a celebration it must be!

Cindy was born on Aug. 25, 1925, in St Paul, MN, and graduated from Murray High School. She married Howard Paulson in 1963 and they moved to Roseville, MN. The family enjoyed many weekends up north at their cozy one-room log cabin in Pine River, MN. They made many great memories there, enjoying the lake, playing cards and cribbage with family, friends and neighbors. Often, sons, Bruce and Brian would play guitar and drums in the garage for neighborhood parties. Over the years, Cindy and Howie remodeled the cabin and made it their home when she retired from a career with Northwestern Bell. Cindy enjoyed volunteering and playing piano at Whispering Pines Nursing Home in Pine River and participating in Geritol Frolics Theater Group in Brainerd.

Cindy was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; parents, Robert and Nora Woodbury; siblings, Helen (Harry) Trites and Joyce (Pete) Peterson; first husband, Kenneth Bolstad; children, Lea Gallagher and Dennis (Nora) Bolstad; grandchild, Jessica Michels; and great-grandchild, Madeline Grant. 

Cindy is survived by her brother, Robert Woodbury, Jr.; daughter, Lisa (Ruben) Griess; sons, Bruce (Donna) Bolstad and Brian (Janet) Bolstad; and son-in-law, Pat Gallagher. In addition, Cindy is survived by 21 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 

A Celebration of Life will be held in Cindy’s honor on October 12, 2024, at Brenny-Kline Family Funeral Chapel in Pine River, MN. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. followed by a service at 2:00 p.m. Join us in celebrating her life by wearing bright colors, reflecting Cindy’s vibrant spirit.

 In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that you make a donation to your favorite charity.