Paul David Rohlf, age 70, died on Saturday, January 12, 2008 surrounded by his family at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn., as a result of an auto accident. He was born February 20, 1937 in Nessel Township, Rush City to Hans (Henry) and Nancy Rohlf.

Paul lived most of his life in Rush City. During his primary years he attended the Rohlf School, a one-room schoolhouse located near the family farmstead. He then attended and graduated from Rush City High School in 1955. Following graduation he worked for Dahlman Manufacturing in Braham as a welder. He served in the U.S. Army from 1961-1962 during the Korean War. Upon his return, he met and married Mary Ann Ertz. 

Paul and Mary lived in Minneapolis for about a year where Paul worked for Hauenstein & Burmeister manufacturing elevator doors. The couple moved back to Rush City in 1964 but Paul continued to work in Minneapolis for many years. Paul and Mary were blessed with three children. In the early 1970s Paul began his part-time entrepreneurial ventures, which eventually developed into Rohlf Enterprises, his full-time business in 1987. Paul enjoyed his family operated business so much that he continued until his accident. He had no plans to retire, only to slow down. In addition to his business, he and Mary enjoyed attending their grandchildren's school and sporting events. Fishing and spending time with family and friends were his greatest joys.

Paul will always be remembered for his strong work ethic, quick wit, gentle spirit, ability to beat the odds, and quiet yet profound love of God and family. He will be deeply missed.

Paul is survived by his wife Mary, his children David (Leslie) Rohlf of St. Paul, Paula (Erik) Metling of Mahtomedi, Brad (Cindy) Rohlf of Lakeville, 12 grandchildren, his sister Carol Gustafson of Silver Bay, brothers Edward (Milly) Rohlf of Rush City, Ted (Muriel) Rohlf of Osceola, Wisc., his father-in-law Bud Ertz, and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents Hans Henry and Nancy (Johanson) Rohlf, sister Gloria Mettling and mother-in-law Millie Ertz.

Rev. Father Xavier Thelakkott officiated at a Mass of Christian Burial for Paul Rohlf Wednesday 11 a.m. at the Church of the Sacred Heart in Rush City. Music was provided by organist Nancy Sterk and soloist Kyle Hanson. Cantor was Paula Belland. Honorary casket bearers included Paul's coffee buddies Dean Harmon, Jerry Parkin, Carroll Ramberg and Howard McNitt.

Active casket bearers included Randy Rohlf, Jim Mettling, Bill Mettling, Dan Mettling, Doug Erickson and Doug Hanson with the interment in the Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Rush City. Military rites at the cemetery were provided by the Grothe-Jacobson VFW Post #6692 and the Rush City American Legion. Arrangements were entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service - Olson Chapel of Rush City, Minnesota.

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