Loren P. Paulsen, 86, of Flandreau, passed away, Sunday at Riverview Healthcare Community, Flandreau. Loren Paulsen's roots went deep into the soil and community of Moody County, South Dakota. After an extensive illness, Loren died December 23, 2018 at Flandreau. Loren was born in a farm house near Ward, South Dakota during the throes of the economic depression in 1932.  At four years of age, his mother died and his aunt, Louise helped his father, John, provide for the young family. His grandfather Peter Paulsen, an immigrant from Denmark started farming in the fertile Moody County loam northeast of Flandreau in 1910. His seven sons and five daughters helped make this venture a success. A large barn loft at the farm was used for Saturday night dances and became a popular destination for many Model T Ford travelers. Loren attended Keith Grade School, near Ward, and spoke of reading every book in the library. He was awarded the county-wide salutatorian certificate following graduation. Loren's interest in farming and agriculture nurtured by his father, John,  continued when he began his college career at South Dakota State College. His training was interrupted by the Korean war, when  he enlisted in the Navy and was stationed in Japan. He returned to the family farm, married his wife, Lucille, and finished his college training to become a high school agricultural instructor in Garretson and Elkton. Loren had a life long interest in leadership and public policy. He played a major role in developing a rural water organization. He served on the Sioux Valley Electric board for many years, was a candidate for the South Dakota Legislature, a school board member and served on many committees.  One of his special interests was an assignment in Belarus, Russia, where he advised farmers on agricultural production.

Loren and Lucille raised four children, Steven (Erin), Loren Eugene (Nancy), Laura Paulsen and Audrey (Richard) Allums. He is survived by his children, six grandchildren, Genna Paulsen, Kaitie (Ben) Brakke, Loren Paulsen, Nathan Paulsen, Austin Paulsen, Brenton Paulsen, sister Lenore Paulsen and a special cousin Jim Milne. He was preceded in death by his wife and a brother Robert.

Funeral services will be 10:00 am Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Skroch Funeral Chapel, Flandreau with burial at Union Cemetery, Flandreau. Military rites by Kelley-Porter American Legion Post #70.