John Robert Paulson
Funeral services for John Robert Paulson, 69, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 31, 2025, in the Langston Street Chapel at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Mr. Paulson passed away at 10:54 p.m., Friday, May 23, 2025, at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
He was born January 21, 1956, to Robert Carl Paulson and Patricia (Seltman) Paulson. John was a big fan of the Green Bay Packers and the St. Louis Cardinals. He was an avid collector and enjoyed music, traveling, working outside, reading, history, visiting Wisconsin, and playing Frisbee golf. He had a good sense of humor, and was always willing to help others. He loved his family, and cherished his grandkids.
He is survived by his significant other Debbie Schrader; his mother, Patricia Paulson; three children, Lindsay Ozisik, Brianna Crosson (Bill), and Bowdy Schrader; five grandchildren, Zane Ozisik, Zoey Ozisik, Ryan Mantle-Paulson, Emily Gay, and Brad Hogan; one great granddaughter, Janie Grace Crosson; and 2 brothers Peter Paulson (Kathy), and Chris Paulson (Mischelle).His father, and two sons, Adam Paulson, and Brett Paulson preceded him in death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri.
Bree
May 26, 2025 @ 7:28 pm
John was an extraordinary man whose kindness, love, and patience touched everyone around him. His caring spirit made the world a brighter place, and his memory will live on in our hearts forever.
Judy Hill
May 27, 2025 @ 12:10 pm
Although I didn’t know John, I know Brianna well and know she loved him dearly. She is a testament to the significant impact that a solid man contributes to the upbringing of a family.
Among the many cherished memories he left behind, he obviously imparted the value of honesty, integrity and love for family.
My condolences for the children and grandchildren and offer prayers for a peace that comes with the knowledge that he no longer suffers and rejoices in the Kingdome of God.
Jim Shepard
May 27, 2025 @ 2:07 pm
Have been reminding myself to take a side trip down to the Mark Twain, since it’s not that far from Kansas City. Tried reaching John several times, but never connected with him. I’m sorry my friend, time waits for none of us. Glad to have known you and Pete as friends. Prayers to you Pete, and the rest of your family, I know John will be missed by all who knew him.
Chris
May 27, 2025 @ 5:09 pm
John, you had the rare ability to carry on a meaningful conversation with anyone on any subject without making those of us that are not as well read feel inferior in any way. You were engaging and caring at the same time.
I’ve always looked up to you, but you didn’t look down on me.
I know you will now.
We will miss you bro!
Brian Wales
June 25, 2025 @ 4:35 pm
Hi Chris,
I’m so sorry that John died way too soon. He and I were true friends growing up. I posted some of the memories of that time. I know you and Pete shared lots of events and things together. Like the triple bunk bed- still the only one I’ve ever seen. I hope you are doing well. Take care.
Karin (Heins) Fraser
June 6, 2025 @ 11:46 am
Grew up with John and his brothers back in Elkhorn WI. Always had great times with all the neighborhood kids and family get togethers. My thoughts go out the the entire family.
Brian Wales
June 25, 2025 @ 4:28 pm
Hi Karin,
You’re always there when someone in the neighborhood passes away. That’s very nice of you. John and I had many good times with Hans (except when we called him Dieter baby and he threatened to beat us up). I hope to run into you again soon- Elkhorn isn’t that big.
Brian Wales
June 25, 2025 @ 4:22 pm
For eighteen years in Elkhorn, WI, I would say John was my best friend. We were one year apart in school but lived only three houses apart. I remember riding bikes all over town. I remember listening for countless hours on records to rock bands from the mid 1960s to the mid 1970s. We sat around and played guitars for hours too. John had nick-names for many people in town- all creative and very funny. We slept outside under the stars in our yards; had sleepovers in his basement; jumped out of the tree in his backyard and I received a certificate of “Guts” when I reached a certain height. I remember when George Harrison’s CONCERT FOR BANGELADESH record came out. John had a copy before me and he brought it over to my house so we could listen to it together. Well, inside he substituted a Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme disc.
I know this is in bad taste now, but- I could have killed him. We did so much together that I could go on and on. John also worked in my parent’s restaurant in Elkhorn. I think he ate a cheeseburger and fries everytime he worked and it may have been after school 4 or 5 days a week. I’m glad that we got together at his mom’s house a couple summers ago. We laughed about things like it was yesterday. My sincere condolences to his mom, Pat and his brothers, Pete and Chris. Rest in peace John.