Charlotte Mae (Zimmer) Paulsen, age 88, of Barron, passed away on January 14, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on February 14, 1937, in Rice Lake, to Hubert and Hattie (Wieden) Zimmer. A Rice Lake High School graduate, she married Jerry Paulsen on July 9, 1955. They were married for 64 years.

Charlotte was the best homemaker and worked in the Rice Lake High School kitchen baking bread. She was devoted to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed time with family, loved baking pies/treats, participating in church activities, and playing games like dominos.

Charlotte made friends wherever she lived—including winters in Arizona and summers at the cabin in Minong.

Charlotte was known for never sitting down, taking care of everyone, and always being in the kitchen. Apple pie was her specialty. She was witty, loving, hardworking, compassionate, giving, strong, and courageous. She touched so many lives in different capacities, she had a positive attitude and a strong faith in Jesus Christ. She was an angel on earth.

She is survived by her children: Patricia (Phil) Awker, Yvonne (Kim) Ritchie, Cynthia (Mike) Bever, Jerry (Brenda) Paulsen, Sandra (Dave) Nichols, Daniel (Robyn) Paulsen, and Pamela Donohoe; 18 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, sister-in-laws, Barbara Zimmer and MaryAnn Hensel, and extended family.

Charlotte was proceeded in death by her husband, Jerry, parents, Hubert and Hattie (Wieden) Zimmer; siblings, Walter, Margaret Omdalen, Herbert, Donald, James, Katherine Heutmaker, Helene Sirek, William, Paul, Jack, and Dorothy Sirek.

A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Barron on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. with Reverend Joeng Lee officiating.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 pm at the church on Saturday morning. Memorials may be made to Shriners or St. Judes Hospitals.

Last Update: Jan 16, 2026 11:08 am CST