George Paun

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of George Peter Paun on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the age of 76.

He was born on July 29, 1949, at the More Hospital in Eveleth, Minn., to Loretta and George J. Paun. He was the eldest of seven children. His siblings included Lois (Carter)) Hagen, Joyce (Bob) Koivu, William (Gail) Paun, Cindy Norby, Michael Paun and Rosemarie Paun, He also had several nieces and nephews.

George was a 1967 graduate of Gilbert High School. After graduating from high school, he was immediately hired as a heavy equipment operator at the Erie Mining Company (LTV Steel) until he enlisted in the army.George proudly served his country. He was assigned to the artillery division in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in June,1970.Upon his return from the service, he continued his employment with the Erie Mining Company retiring in 1999, just before it's closing, George was an athlete throughout his entire life excelling in several high school sports, as well as, adult softball, volleyball, bowling and golfing,In April 1993, George married Jean Monsrud and gained another family, Lynn (Jeff) Kuitunen their son Brent, Bruce (Bonnie) Monsrud and their son Nate. A true outdoorsman at heart, George enjoyed hunting and fishing with family and friends. His favorite place to hunt was at the hunting shack in Kelliher, Throughout the years he would fish on various lakes, with Trout Lake being his preferred lake. He would have the knack of knowing where that special fishing hole was to catch enough fish and save them to share with everyone at his fish fry on the 3rd of July,He always welcomed visits from his family, their pets and friends. George "Pete" will be sadly missed by all, but we are so thankful to have had him in our lives.

There will be a gathering to honor George, to share stories and memories on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the VFW in Gilbert, Minn.Plans are being made for George to receive military funeral honors to commemorate his service to the nation at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Duluth.