Wayne Paulson

Major Wayne Iver Paulson, an officer and a gentleman, saluted his Maker as he passed through the gates on July 20th, 2025.  

Wayne was born in Deadwood, South Dakota, to Gilbert and Dorothy (Tweet) Paulson. Early in his childhood, the family moved to Glendive, Montana. He attended Dawson County High School, where he excelled in basketball. Standing at six feet seven inches tall, his coach loved him. After graduation, Wayne joined the United States Marine Corps and served two tours in Vietnam. On June 23, 1974, he married Margaret Wright and continued his career in the Marines. He helped raise her two children, James and Margo Austin, and later her four grandchildren. Wayne served 22 years in 33 countries.  His unit was the first to arrive during Desert Shield, and he was the last man out of Desert Storm. He retired with the rank of Major. After retiring, Wayne moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he became a realtor. Following his divorce, he opened his own Italian restaurant. He later worked as the Operations Manager for Minex Resources, a global mining company. In 2004, Wayne moved to Billings, Montana, where he worked for Valley Welders Supply and then for his brother, Cal, at Billings Bronze art casting foundry for 20 years, until it closed. 

Wayne’s life was the Marines. His many, many medals and awards were deeply personal to him, with only a few special pictures proudly displayed on his wall: a photograph of the Phantom F4, which he flew in; a special engraved eagle award; and a framed photo of the Blue Angels, which was presented to him by the team. 

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his brother Leon Paulson (Cindy) of Billings; his sister Peggy Handran of Glendive; and his brother Calvin Paulson (Rane) of Billings, along with many nieces and nephews.  Wayne shared a deep friendship with Lee Lindsey for the past twenty years; she was also his devoted caregiver in his final months. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Toys for Tots or a charity of your choice.  

Interment with full military honors will be held on August 8th at 1:00 pm in the Yellowstone National Cemetery in Laurel, Montana.  

“If the Army or the Navy ever look on Heaven’s scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines.” SEMPER FI WAYNE 

Dahl Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements