Ben Paulsen, 40, of Davenport, formerly of DeWitt, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly, Wednesday, February 23, 2022.

Ben was born August 31, 1981, to Russell and Mary (Batey) Paulsen in Maquoketa, Iowa. He graduated from DeWitt Central in 2000. Ben helped on the family farm for many years, and most recently worked for EVO Transportation hauling U.S.P.S. mail. He was married to Sherri Velthoff, they later divorced. Ben met the love of his life, Sherrie “Boo” Dilly in November of 2014. The couple shared their hearts and home with all their children in Davenport.

Ben was an all-around outdoorsman and enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting, camping, gardening, and cooking on the grill. He was always helping friends, family, neighbors, and anyone in need. He had a unique sense of humor, and enjoyed a bad joke. He always had a smile on his face. Ben was very involved with his children and was always helping them with any obstacle they faced. He loved “big breakfast Sunday” with his family.

He will be dearly missed by his fiancé, Boo; children, Cameron, Christopher, Chase, Colton, Chloe, and Chelsea; stepchildren, Cody, Sidney, and Courtney; step-grandchildren, Nola and Scarlet; his parents, Russell and Mary of DeWitt; siblings, Tavia (Edgar) Vital, and Michael (Tammy) Ricklefs; grandmother, Noreen Peters of Silvis, Illinois; nieces and nephews, Jeremy, Michaela, Logan, Ixaya, and Caiden; as well as many close friends and adopted family members.

A private family service will be held at a later date. Ben will be laid to rest on his family’s farm.

Memorials may be made to Cameron Paulsen, care of Schultz Funeral Home, for a trust for Ben’s children.

Arrangements are in the care of Schultz Funeral Home, DeWitt. Condolences may be expressed at www.schultzfuneralhomes.com