Kevin Paulsen Obituary

Kevin Anton Paulsen, age 56, passed away at St. Francis Medical Center on Tuesday, January 6, 2015.

Kevin is survived by his loving wife, Diane, five sons: Chae, Caleb, Micah, Kevin Jr. and Gilbert; two step-daughters: Jessica Long and Kimberly McCown; his caring Mother Jackie Paulsen; two brothers: Kim and his wife Danielle and Kerri and Eloise; one sister: Erin Nichols and her husband Kimball Nichols. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren.

Kevin proudly served his country for 23 years and was a US Navy Retired Chief Petty Officer with seven Navy Achievement Medals, three Navy Unit Commendation Medals, six Good Conduct Awards, a Navy E Ribbon, a Navy Expeditionary Medal, two National Defense Service Medals, two Southwest Asia Service Medals, a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, four Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, a Kuwait Liberation Medal, a Navy Pistol Sharp Shooter Ribbon, five Letters of Commendation, and forty-four Navy Recruiting Gold Wreath Awards.

Kevin always wanted to learn Karate. After he and his wife, Diane were married in San Diego where he was stationed as a Navy recruiter, he began his Karate career. His first instructor was Doshu Mark Colangelo. He and his wife transferred to Arizona to continue his recruiting career. It was at this time that his wife Diane became his instructor. They then were transferred to Colorado Springs where he continued in martial arts and most recently became a second degree black belt.

After retiring from the Navy, Kevin received his Master's Degree in Professional Counseling with a Major in Christian Counseling. He and his wife suffered a setback when he lost his job and was out of work from to 2006 to 2008. During this time, the people at Mercy's Gate were able to assist them in keeping their house and providing for them in different areas. It was at this time that Kevin was filled with a desire to give back to those that helped him when he was in need. He served at Mercy's Gate as a Christian Counselor witnessing to people who were in the same situation he had made it through. He loved helping people whether through counseling or in Karate. God gave him special insight when helping anyone in need.

A Memorial Service will be held Sunday, January 11, 2015 at 4:00 PM at Academy Christian Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Mercy's Gate.