Mark Paulsen, 54

Mark Paulsen, 54, of Rockford, Ill., died suddenly July 2, 2004, in OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center.

Memorial services were July 7 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. A private family inurnment will be held at the Arlington Cemetery.

Mark Paulsen was born Aug, 12, 1949, in Spirit Lake, Iowa, to former Arlington residents Richard and Beverly (Osterman) Paulsen.

He was raised and educated in Iowa, graduating in 1967 from Griswold High School. He attended the University of Nebraska, where he graduated in 1971 with a bachelor of science in education. He ten taught for two years in Iowa while pursing his graduate degree.

In 1973, he moved to Rockford, and began his career with the Harlem School District. He completed his master of science degree in counseling from Northwest Missouri State University. For 31 years, he was employed by the Harlem School District, where he taught English and then served as a high school guidance counselor.

He married Cassie Short of Rockford on July 31, 1976. They were members of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.

Mr. Paulsen enjoyed sports, playing golf, listening to music, and reading.

In addition to his wife, Cassie, he is survived by a son, John Paulsen, also of Rockford; a daughter, Emily Paulsen of Chapel Hill, N. C.; mother, Beverly Paulsen of Arnolds Park, Iowa; sister, Alica Allen, also of Arnolds Park.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard.

Memorials are suggested to the family for the establishment of a scholarship to Boylan Catholic High School.