Paul Henschel

Paul David Henschel, 73, died on February 15, 2025, at his home in Emmons, MN.

Paul was born on April 9, 1951, and was adopted by Raleigh and Ethel Henschel. Paul’s childhood was spent in California, Colorado, Princeton, MN, and settled in Albert Lea. At the age of 17, Paul decided to join the Air Force and served his country in Vietnam. Once he returned to the States, he was stationed in Minot, ND, where he met his future wife Cathy (Schilling). They were united in marriage on June 30, 1972. To this union, they had two children, Andy and Mindy.

Paul transferred to the Army National Guard in 1975. He and his wife made their home in the Albert Lea Area. He finished his military service in 1986. Paul loved to go west to hunt and instilled a love of nature and the outdoors in his children and grandchildren.

Paul’s character of serving went beyond the military. He created the Emmons’ softball league, was a member of the Emmons’ American Legion, Emmons’ Civic Club, a member of the Glenville-Emmons school board, he helped organize the Emmons’ Borderfest Celebrations, and he was a founding member of the Emmons’ Veteran’s Memorial Park. Paul served the community of Emmons as the mayor from 1997-2024.

Paul is survived by his wife of 52 years, Cathy, son Andy (Jennifer), and his daughter Mindy (Adam) Koelsch. His grandchildren Andrew Jr., Justin, Alex, Lexi, Hailey, and Elizabeth. Many cousins who were as close to him as brothers and sisters.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raleigh and Ethel, stepfather, Richard McFarland, granddaughter Chloe, and in-laws Lucille Timm, Emil and Jean Schilling.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services in Albert Lea, MN. Visitation will be an hour prior to the service. He will be interned at Fort Snelling at a later date.

The livestream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral and Cremation Services. 

Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product.

Please note, if the livestream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.