Jerrold Lee “Jerry” Paulsen passed away Monday August 21st. His final hours were spent alongside his devoted bride of forty-two years, Cheri’, and cracking jokes with the medical staff who was caring for him. Jerry will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Born on December 28th, 1942 to Bernadette and Hubert Paulsen, Jerry was the fourth of five siblings. They lived in Peshastin, WA until 1950, when Hubert took a job with the Howe Sound Mining company and relocated the family to Holden, near Chelan, WA. Jerry’s parents ran the general store and as a young boy he thrived in Holden. Fishing. Hiking. Getting into mischief. He would later write a book about his years in the isolated mountain town called MY HOLDEN, which was one of his proudest achievements. When the mine closed in 1957, the family moved to Cashmere, WA. Jerry graduated from Cashmere High school in 1961, and soon thereafter he joined the Navy and married his high school sweetheart Nancy Brewer. They had two children, Damon and Tiffany, and after serving in San Diego, a back injury honorably discharged him and the family returned to Cashmere to stay.

Jerry was a talented artist who dreamed of being a musician - actor - writer and photographer. He opened a photography studio in Cashmere and became known for shooting local weddings and High School dances and graduation portraits. After the couple divorced, Jerry moved to Oregon where he was a bit of a nomad, living on boats, working a variety of jobs, and eventually returning to college. While Jerry valued education and hard work, he had a wanderlust for travel and embraced life to the fullest. A spontaneous motorcycle trip through Europe was one of his happiest memories. Jerry had a special affinity for the ocean and was a self-taught sailor, who would own many, many boats over his lifetime, including his beloved Shady Lady.

In 1981, Jerry married the love of his life Cheri’, and her daughter Michelle, and they would be inseparable until his last day. The couple settled in Oregon City where they became famous for elaborate dinners and holiday celebrations. Jerry was the consummate host who loved cooking for friends and family. He was also an accomplished woodworker who spent countless hours in his woodshop, surviving more than a few injuries, creating cherished works of art.

But beyond all his many talents, Jerry was happiest taking center stage. Whether holding a guitar - a fishing pole - or a microphone - Jerry was a true entertainer, who thrived in the light of others, bringing unbridled joy and full-throttled laughter to anyone lucky enough to listen. It is this genuine spirit, love of life, kindness and laughter - even though hardship - that will be truly, deeply missed.

Jerry is survived by his wife Cheri’ Paulsen; son and daughters, Damon Paulsen, Tiffany Paulsen, and Michelle Waco. Sister Reyma Weaver. Grandchildren Nick, Arielle, Brendan and Jett, and great-grandson Julian. He was preceded in death by brothers Jackie Paulsen and Dennis Paulsen, and his sister Joanna Miller.

In lieu of flowers the family requests a donation in Jerry’s name be made to the Disabled Veterans of America or another personal cause close to your heart. Celebration of life to be held on Monday September 11th at the Ainsworth House and Gardens. From 1:30 to 4:00 pm.

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