Ardyce M. Paulson

Ardyce Marie (Tranberg) Paulson, age 86, of Winona, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at the Gundersen Health System Hospital in La Crosse.

Ardyce was born March 8, 1938, in Ettrick, WI, to Selma and Silas Tranberg. She grew up on the family farm in Ettrick and attended school in Galesville. In 1957, she graduated from what is now known as the Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau School District. She went on to attend secretarial school in Winona and worked as a secretary for several years at Warner and Swayze (later Badger Construction) in Winona.

On December 28, 1968, Ardyce married Norman Jerome Paulson at Central Lutheran Church in Winona. Once their son, Brian, was born, Ardyce became a stay-at-home mother. When Brian began elementary school, Ardyce briefly worked at Jefferson Elementary School during the lunch hour as a lunchroom supervisor to ensure Brian, and all the other neighborhood children, “Ate all their vegetables at lunch”.

As a lifelong, active member of Central Lutheran Church in Winona, Ardyce was strong in her faith and trust in God. She was one of the members of the congregation who made the walk from the previous Central Lutheran building to its new home on Huff and 7th when that building was completed. She attended bible studies, countless social events hosted by Central Lutheran, served as an officer in the Women of the ELCA for many years, and she thoroughly enjoyed assisting with the annual Christmas Bazar and Bake Sale. She was also a committed member of the church choir for many years. 

Ardyce was a dedicated homemaker and raised one son, Brian, with her beloved husband Jerry. She loved music, especially choral and organ music. She frequently listened to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir on the radio and enjoyed watching choral performances, both in person and on television. This was especially true during the Christmas season. Ardyce supported Jerry and Brian in all their endeavors and always made sure they both knew where they were going and had what they needed. Ardyce made many trips with her husband Jerry to many of Brian’s high school and collegiate golf tournaments. She also maintained the home front when Brian and Jerry were on the road when Brian was playing professional golf.

Ardyce is survived by her son, Brian (Kathryn) of Winona, and two Wheaten Terrier grand dogs, Lola and Ozzy, who brought her joy. She is also survived by her two sisters, Vera Grinde and Alvern Johnson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Norman Jerome (Jerry) on January 1, 2019; mother, Selma Tranberg; and father, Silas Tranberg.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until the funeral service at 11 AM on Monday, July 8, 2024, at Central Lutheran Church in Winona. Ardyce will be laid to rest at the Money Creek Cemetery.

Donations in Ardyce’s name may be directed to the Music Program of Central Lutheran Church.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Ardyce’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.