Joel N. Paulson

August 24, 2026 - 19:41

Joel Nicholas Floyd Paulson, 44, of New Brighton, Minnesota, passed away suddenly but peacefully at his home on August 11, 2026. His death came just three months after a successful kidney transplant, a procedure he had awaited through nearly two years of grueling dialysis.

Paulson had been battling IgA Nephropathy, also known as Berger's Disease, which caused progressive kidney damage and ultimately led to organ failure. Friends and family say he faced the long months of treatment with remarkable strength, never complaining about the nightly dialysis sessions or the strict dietary limits. The transplant on May 12, 2026, had been a turning point, offering renewed hope and a return to a more normal life.

In the weeks following the surgery, Paulson was reportedly recovering well, enjoying time with loved ones and planning for the future. His sudden passing has left his community in shock. Those who knew him describe a man of quiet humor and deep loyalty, someone who always put others first even while managing his own health struggles.

Paulson is remembered not for his illness, but for the way he lived. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing on Minnesota lakes and cheering for local sports teams. His family has asked for privacy during this difficult time but expressed gratitude for the medical teams who supported him and for the anonymous donor who gave him a second chance. A memorial gathering is being planned for later this month.