Harold L. Paulsen, a well known insurance and investment representative, popular singer and speaker, passed away Saturday, August 1, 2015. He packed a lot into his 98 years of life.
Born February 21, 1917, he was the oldest of six children born to Paul and Elfreda Paulsen. He attended Bryant School, Helena High and Intermountain College.
In 1947 he married the former Betty Sanford of Helena, who preceded him in death in 2010. During their 63 years of marriage they raised four children, traveled much of Europe, Hawaii, Alaska and the Panama Canal. He was quick to say that with all of his activities, his family always came first. Betty’s constant love, support and encouragement was steadfast and his children have been a constant source of love, help and support. In his words, “I am a lucky guy.”
For some eight decades, Harold’s fine tenor voice was heard in groups, choirs, recordings and solo performances across the US (60+ churches), England, Germany, Norway and Denmark and others. Since 1931 he sang at over 4,000 public performances. His speaking skills and qualities of leadership developed when he was still a youth living in the Helena valley.
Harold began a lifelong career with the Montana Life Insurance Company, later known as Western Life, Fortis Financial Group and currently the Hartford Company. In 2001, he was singularly honored at the home office in Hartford, Connecticut on the occasion of his 65th anniversary with the company, a longer tenure than any other individual.
He held many positions during his career including Superintendent of Agencies, general agent and a constant top sales producer. This sent him and his family to premier convention sites in the US and Canada.
He learned his public speaking and singing skills early. As a youth, he was active in several organizations including 4-H and DeMolay. In 4-H he was a club leader for 5 years and won several state honors. In 1933, he was one of the speakers at the State Leadership Conference in Bozeman. In 1934, he was selected as the first delegate from his county to the National 4-H Congress in Chicago and in 1965 received this county’s first 4-H Alumni Award. Throughout his lifetime he continued his support of this special youth organization. With DeMolay he received the treasured DeMolay Legion of Honor Degree.
Harold joined the Army in 1941. Two years later, he was accepted to Officer Candidate School and received his commission as an Air Force Statistical Officer from Harvard School of Business Administration. He served with the 8th Air Force in England for 28 months and was discharged in December 1945 with the rank of Captain.
Returning from the Service, he became active in the Jaycees and was elected State President in 1947. Because of his hands on involvement Harold was inducted as a Charter Member of the National Jaycees Hall of Leadership at Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1983.
Harold was devoted to his Lord and church. As a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, where he was confirmed, he led the building of the new church as the building committee chair. There he served as Sunday School Superintendent for five years, provided his musical talent and “filled” the church pulpits on several occasions in the pastor’s absence. Those who have attended the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast since it started in the early 1960’s were treated to Harold’s speaking and singing.
The kids remember helping Dad hang campaign signs for his Montana legislature elections in ‘57 and ‘59 and his entertaining radio shows. He was Vice President of the Helena Chamber of Commerce, Co-Chairman for the Community Chest (now United Way). With the American Red Cross he served as President of the L&C Chapter, 2 years as State Fund Director and represented Montana at national meetings in San Francisco and Philadelphia.
Adding to his community service including 70 years as a Mason, he was honored by both the York and Scottish Rite Degrees and is a Past Potentate of Algeria Shrine Temple. He was Secretary of the Helena Kiwanis for nearly 20 years and was presented the coveted George F. Hixson International Service Award. Harold was a member of the American Legion and was a board member for several local organizations helping those in need, including: the Little Red School House, the Farm in the Dell, the Intermountain Deaconess Home and the Florence Crittenton Home.
Harold did a lot for a lot of people, but will remembered most for his terrific singing. He also sang for most of the Montana Governors during his lifetime, commencing with Governor John E. Erickson. One of his most memorable highlights was as a soloist for the 8th Air Force Glee Club in the Nuremberg Opera House in Germany at the end of WWII. He once shared the stage with the late Norman Vincent Peale.
Harold is survived by his four children and spouses, Peggy and Bill Honeck of Houston, sons Dick and Carol, Lee and Kristi, Jim and Jan of Helena as well as 13 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren (not counting the “one on the way”). He was proceeded in death by his parents, wife Betty and brothers Paul, Bud, Kenneth, Bill and his sister Lillian “Sis” Duncan. He also adored his many nieces and nephews who knew him as “Crazy Uncle Harold”.
The Paulsen, Duncan and Glenn family gatherings at the family home at Forrestvale and the Fjell Sater cabin (Norwegian for “mountain home”) were an important part of Harold’s life. The stories of life at Forestvale and times spent together help define our families.
The family very much appreciates the love and care provided to him by his “family” at the Masonic Home of Montana.
A memorial service celebrating Harold’s life will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 8, 2015 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1000 Helena Avenue. A reception will be held in the lower level of the church immediately following the memorial service. Interment with military honors will follow the reception at approximately 1:30 p.m. in the family plot at Forestvale Cemetery. Harold has requested memorials be given to the 4-H Foundation c/o L&C County Extension Service 100 W. Custer Avenue Helena, Montana 50602, Transportation Fund C/O Algeria Shrine Temple P.O. Box 1174 Helena, Montana 59624, the Masonic Home of Montana, 2010 Masonic Home Road Helena, Montana 59602 or organization of the donor’s choice
To offer a condolence to his family or to share a memory of Harold please visit below.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Saturday August 8, 2015
St. John's Lutheran Church
1000 Helena Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately following the church service
Saturday August 8, 2015
Fellowship Hall located in the lower level of the church
1000 Helena Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
Approximately 1:30 p.m.
Saturday August 8, 2015
Forestvale Cemetery
Forstvale Road in Helena Valley
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
11:00 a.m.
Saturday August 8, 2015
St. John's Lutheran Church
1000 Helena Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Reception
Immediately following the church service
Saturday August 8, 2015
Fellowship Hall located in the lower level of the church
1000 Helena Avenue
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
Approximately 1:30 p.m.
Saturday August 8, 2015
Forestvale Cemetery
Forstvale Road in Helena Valley
Helena, Montana 59602
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Cliff & Debbie Christian says
We are both sad and at the same time very happy that Harold Paulsen has passed. he is now reunited with his wife and best friend Betty; and It’s looks like the Lord just acquired another glorious voice for heaven’s choir. The history of Helena will not be complete until a historian writes about the exploits of Betty in politics and Harold as an entertainer. I simply cannot count the hundreds of venues Harold headlined; giving us the pleasure listening to, what I believe to be, the perfect voice, with the perfect pitch. Until later Mr. Paulsen. Say hello to Betty for us.
Chuck and Terri Paske says
To Harold’s family, we extend our sympathy…Harold and Betty, can’t think of one without thinking of the other. Harold was a fun guy and Betty a great encourager. May your days of grief be lessened by the memories you hold to now. We were blessed to have known them.
Cliff & Debbie Christian says
We are both sad, but at the same time very happy that Harold Paulsen has passed. He is now reunited with his wife and best friend Betty; and It’s looks like the Lord just acquired another glorious voice for heaven’s choir. I’ve spent spent many pleasurable hours with son Dick, recalling the memories of your mom and Dad. They were special people. I believe the history of Helena will not be complete until an historian writes about the exploits of Betty in politics and Harold as an entertainer. I simply cannot count the hundreds of venues Harold headlined; giving us the pleasure listening to, what I believe to be, the perfect voice, with the perfect pitch. Until later Mr. Paulsen. Say hello to Betty for us – See more at: https://helenafuneralhome.com/obituaries/harold-lee-paulsen-age-98-of-helena/#respond
Cathy Schneckloth Dawe says
Jim & Family, I was so sorry to hear about your Dad’s passing. May the memories hold him close to your heart. God will give you love & support during the hard times.
Tom and Judy Rolfe says
To the Paulsen Family,
Please know we are thinking of all of you at this difficult time. Harold was one of Helena’s finest. Our community is a better place because of his dedication and commitment to so many worthwhile causes. We knew him as a faithful Christian man to his wife and family, a dedicated Shriner who helped children have a better life and a tireless member of the Helena Kiwanis Club, serving his community and it’s children for many, many years. He is a treasure who will be missed. We send our Love and Prayers to you all as you say just a temporary goodbye to your Dad and Grandfather, he and Betty are waiting for you all as they get the Paulsen family together for songs and rejoicing one day soon.
Steve Sampson says
So sorry for your loss.
Your dad was loved by everyone who knew him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Steve and Jackie Sampson.
David and Debra Owen says
To the Paulsen Family,
My memories of Harold and Betty began with attending a little church called Faith Tabernacle. I grew up listening to Harold sing and narrate stories to music. His faith in his Lord was evident. As I grew older and became active in Helena Kiwanis Club, I appreciated his dedication to our community and his mentoring of me as a young adult.
God bless you as you morn the loss of such an amazing man and friend.
David and Debra (Nietering) Owen
Beverly Fox says
I so loved Christmas eve’s with Harold and Fred Hubbard singing at St John’s.
When I needed to research a piece of music – Harold had the goods!
Karen Bryson says
Paulson family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. So many memories with uncle Fred Hubbard, Phil Duncan, Harold and dad (Darryl Lee) singing throughout the years! Aunt Jeanne Gillie liked to say she went to bed with Herald every night as she listened to a cassette tape of him singing! What a joyous reunion many are having in heaven.
John C. Ulberg says
Harold and Betty were good friends of my Mom and Dad, Ben and Vi. His beautiful rich
voice brought worshipping pleasure to many for years at St. John’s Lutheran church. He was
a unique man, and truly fun to talk to. And he liked cookies.
Judy & Doug Gedrose says
Dick, Carol and family,
Please accept our condolences on the passing of Harold. Losing a parent is difficult.
Sincerely,
Judy and Doug Gedrose
Judy & Doug Gedrose says
Thinking of you at this time.
Judy and Doug Gedrose
Connie Sands Jerome says
My most sincere condolences to the family. Harold sang at my mothers funeral when I was just 12 years old. I will never forget his gift of song, to those of us mourning – His voice brought comfort to so many through the years. May he rest in peace and sing with the Heavenly choir of angels now. Prayers for all during this difficult time.
Darlene Scott says
Peggy and the Paulsen family,
I don’t think there is a person that was raised in Helena that doesn’t remember your Dad singing at various occasions. What a voice. He was such a nice person, too! I know that you have many wonderful memories to help ease your pain at this most difficult time.
You have my sincerest sympathy.
Darlene Miller Scott
Classmate 1966
Gary Paulsen says
When Uncle Harold was 85 years old, he came to Texas to give the eulogy at his Brother and my Dad, Bud Paulsen’s funeral. Harold didn’t sing that day, but he told some stories. I don’t remember any tears that day. Harold’s story telling had everyone laughing. It’s still the best funeral I’ve ever attended. Thanks for all the memories, Uncle Harold. Until we meet again…
Holley Kershaw says
Lee, Kristi, Aaron, Zac, and Paulsen family, Harold was one of GOD’s special children and what a life he had and shared. Thinking of you during this time. May celebrating his life bring you comfort and peace.
Jon and Robyn Nickel says
Robyn and I wish to extend our deepest condolences to the entire Paulsen family. We are sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. I have fond memories of hanging around your house on Broiadway and playing baseball at Lockey Park when we were all growing together.
Paul Rammer says
Jim, Jan and family,
So sorry for your loss and I celebrate the incredible life Harold lived.
Paul
Jim Moody says
Harold and my mom sang together many times. What a great memory.
Delores Franz says
Through the years, the favorite part of coming to the Governor’s Prayer Breakfast was when Harold Paulson stood and led us in singing MONTANA.
Cheryl Ramsey Drugge says
My parents Earl and Betty Ramsey were such good friends with Harold and Betty. They were in our home often and Harold always came into the house to sing his greeting to the family. They came to St. Paul, MN to visit with my parents and were even able to spend an afternoon with my family. I know they were there to greet Harold in Heaven, along with his beloved wife Betty. I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a parent is one of the hardest things we can endure.
Mary Kay McCoskery-Rolwes says
What a legacy! I will always remember him smiling.
Pam Ramsey Weeks says
Harold and Betty were a very big part of my childhood going up in Helena. Harold always came in the house singing, and their happy smiles always came easily. It seems that my parents, Earl and Betty Ramsey, knew Harold and Betty as though they were part of our family. They had Western Life Insurance Company in common, they shared special friendships with many of the same people, and there was ALWAYS singing. My childhood memories are filled with hearing Harold and my Mom, Betty Ramsey, singing together – not only in their living rooms, but all around Helena as well. It was always special and very blessed. I’m so sad at Harold’s passing, but I am happy for the reunion between Harold & Betty and my parents, Earl & Betty. I am sure there is some pretty grand singing going on in heaven now!
Dave Van Nice says
Please accept condolences from Thea and me. I will always think of Harold when I hear the song “Easter Bonnet”. There is a version of him singing it available on the Internet.
Nancy Morgan says
Dick & Lee,
John and I send our condolences to you and your families. Your dad was a wonderful man. May your happy memories give you peace in the coming days.
John and Nancy Morgan
Debbie Powley says
Steve and I were saddened to hear of Harold’s passing. He was such a good friend and neighbor while we lived in Helena. We have fond memories of him and still have his music CD to listen to. Our deepest sympathy to the family!
Steve and Debbie Powley
Michael Paulsen says
What a privilege to know Harold Paulsen. I have such fond memories of my Uncle Harold. His great speaking voice, wonderful singing voice, great sense of humor, and boundless energy. The world would be a better place if their were more Harold Paulsen’s. We will miss you Harold!
Bill & Shirley Rammer says
We are extending our condolences to all of Harold’s family. He set a wonderful example for all of them as well as to the community he ever lived in. We felt sorrow that we were unable to participate in the memorial and burial services but our hearts were there in spirit.
Love to all….Bill & Shirley
Jeannene Maas says
Thinking of your family and knowing you are taking comfort that this absence is only for a time.
My Dad (Lyle Baxter) had many stories of when he and Harold were young, including high school in box cars after the earthquakes. Whenever I think of Harold, I can see his smile, and hear his wonderful voice, both singing and laughing. What a wonderful man.
Jeannene (Baxter) Maas
Mary Brydich, Sec-Treas. MT District of Kiwanis says
Dear Paulsen Family – I cannot tell you how much Harold and Betty have meant to me over the years. Most of my association was through Kiwanis. Harold was always there with a twinkle in his eye and words of encouragement. He was an awesome secretary and I had the privilege of replacing him as Secretary of the Helena Kiwanis when he stepped down from the position. When I moved to Bozeman in 2002, we continued to stay in touch through Christmas letters and we called each other on our birthdays to sing “Happy Birthday” until his health failed. I know he is now with Betty singing in heaven. Rest well, my friend!