ESTREM, Paul David 1939-2010

VISTE, ESTREM, GIPP, AAS

Posted By: IA GenWeb Volunteer
Date: 10/1/2010 at 19:13:15

Paul David Estrem

Paul Estrem, age 70, of Decorah died Wednesday, August 11, 2010 after a bicycle accident near Conover. Funeral services were held Monday, August 16 at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church in Decorah with interment at Washington Prairie North Cemetery. The family was assisted with arrangements by Schluter-Balik Funeral Home in Decorah.

Paul David Estrem was born December 10, 1939 to Charles and Elizabeth (Viste) Estrem in Waukon. Paul attended the Bakke (Frankville #7) School graduating from the Decorah High School in 1958. Paul was active in wrestling and track. He attended Luther College for about a year, but because of his father's health, he quit school and took over the farm. He also had a milk route with the Nordness Creamery. He got to know his customers quite well. He often talked about these days and that if it was muddy, he could carry two cans at a time and hoist them up into the truck without setting either one in the mud. He was strong! He owned and operated Paul’s Print and Supply and also worked at Camcar for fifteen years. Paul and Lois each went to a social dancing class, each with a friend. Even though they knew each other from Sunday school and church, this is where they really met. For many years they went dancing on Saturday nights. June 14, 1964, Paul married Lois (Gipp) at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church, a very warm day. One of the guests told Paul, “If you can get married on such a warm day, you must really love this woman." And he did.

To this union came five wonderful sons whom they both are very proud of. Chris of Ketchum, ID, Steven of La Place, LA, Mike (Deb) of Fayette, Pete of Waterloo, and Jason (Leslie) of Minneapolis, MN.

Paul had a wide range of interests. Each one he was very passionate about. He needed to help someone all the time. He started Operation Hay Lift in 1978, making some very dear friends. This is when he got his CB handle “Hay Man." He was a very big part of the “Big Blue Tent” down by City Hall at Nordic Fest, where the men of the church cooked potatoes, roast beef and beans over fire in huge kettles. For a few years he had a big garden, taking produce to the Farmers Market. Luren was also a big part of his life. He loved his two hour voice lesson every Monday night. And of course the Luren food stand at the Fair. Could it be open without Paul? Lion’s Club and Pokey Pete popcorn - Paul took Pokey Pete to town parades whenever he was called. John Tjosten and Paul kept Pokey Pete looking its best. Howard Paskach took Pokey to Train Days in Marquette each September. Paul was enrolled with New Minowa Players, being in several plays and also making sets. Habitat For Humanity was also important. It was very rewarding for him to get people into a nice home. Paul liked to travel, planning their fourth cruise in December and a third trip to Acapulco where they met some very dear friends. He liked getting away from the Iowa winters. If he sat down to relax the Sodoku book was in his hand. Paul’s biggest passion was his church. He became involved in the repair of stained glass windows. He so much wanted to finish that project this year. He also put in a lot of time getting the parsonage restored. Even in death, Paul continues to give. He was an organ and tissue donor
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Paul’s survivors include his wife, Lois, of Decorah; five sons, Chris of Ketchum, ID, Steven of La Place, LA, Mike (Deb) of Fayette, Pete of Waterloo and Jason (Leslie) of Minneapolis, MN; his brother, John (Marilyn) Estrem of Mahtowa, MN; his sister, Lilah Aas, of Albert Lea, MN; and many nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, his brother-in-law, Gordon Aas, and his nephew, Ethan.

Waukon STANDARD, August 18, 2010

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