Obituary of William F. Paulsen

William F. Paulsen (87), “Bill”, “Senior”, “Poppy”, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 12th, 2021.

Born in Scotia, NY to late parents, Karl, and Bertha (Dittmann) Paulsen. He graduated from Roessleville High (now Colonie H.S.), class of '53. He proudly accomplished never missing a day of school, K-12. After graduating High School in 1953, Bill joined the Seabees in the Navy Reserve from 1955 to 1958. Bill was a principal owner of the Paulsen Lumber Company, along with his father Karl and his brother Rudy from 1953 until 1980. After that, he enjoyed 10 years of retirement, until encouraged by Bill Jr. to get into the golf business. Bill Sr. purchased what was then Northway Heights in Clifton Park, NY and changed the name to Eagle Crest Golf Club. With the help of son Bill, daughter Wendy, many fine employees, and the support of area golfers “The Crest” became one of the area’s best and busiest golf courses. 

Bill always enjoyed golf through his memberships at several clubs including Tall Timbers, Pinehaven, Wolfert’s Roost and his association with the traveling 2x4 league, where he was a past president and 50+ year member.

Though not a highly skilled player he could “kick it around” with the best of them. He enjoyed the 19th Hole, the camaraderie it brought, and a cold Ketel One, or perhaps 2 —the same as his favorite golfer, Arnold Palmer.

When not busy at the golf course, Bill and his beloved wife, Peg, of 33 years, found plenty of time to travel and go on cruises. Their love for the Caribbean was highlighted when they were able to take their family to the beautiful island of St. Lucia for a dual birthday celebration for Bill’s 80th and Peg’s 70th. 

The Shutzen Park at the German American Club of Albany has always held a special place in Bill’s heart. In the early 50’s, Bill and his brothers were members of the German American soccer club team. Father’s Day at the Shutzen Park was one of Bill’s favorite days of the year. The family has continued this Father’s Day tradition of drinking German Beer and dancing to oom-pah pah music and will continue to do so for years to come in his honor.  

In the past several years, as the family has continued to grow both Poppy & Gigi loved spending time with their great grandchildren.

Predeceased by his brother, Rudy Paulsen. 

To continue Bill’s memory is his loving wife, Margaret “Peg” Paulsen; children: William Jr. (Kim) Paulsen, Jeffrey (Kimberly) Paulsen, Wendy (Mark) Soroka Anderson; stepchildren: William (Heather) Barker, Lisa (Matt) Perodeau; grandchildren: Mark, Eric, Olivia, Leah, Lindsey, Sarah, Jeffrey, Michelle, Jack, Lily, Gracie, Cole, Aidan; 9 great-grandchildren; brother, Dr. Carl (Joann) Paulsen; the mother of his children, Phyllis Paulsen; as well as numerous nieces  and nephews. 

Calling hours will be held at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd. on Saturday, December 18th from 2 to 5 PM. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 5 PM. Burial at Memory Gardens will be private at the family’s convenience. Memorial contributions may be made to the Northeastern New York Chapter - Alzheimer's Association, 4 Pine West Plaza Suite 405, Albany NY 12205. Online condolences may be made at: GLENVILLEFUNERALHOME.COM.