Paul D. Szeflinski, age 61, of La Crosse, WI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 7, 2025.
He was born on July 24, 1964, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to David and Delores (Kaminski) Szeflinski. He grew up in Milwaukee with his brother Greg.
On June 27, 1992, Paul was united in marriage to Brenda Frank and spent 27 wonderful years together. Paul’s favorite roles were those of a husband and father, coordinating family vacations and spending countless hours at the hockey rink and soccer fields. He treasured watching his children, Mitchell, Mariah, and Melissa, grow into young adults. Paul’s happiest days were often the simplest: a quiet day spent fishing, the lively excitement of a local street fest, or just a relaxing afternoon reading in the sun. These moments were elevated when he was able to spend them with his family, even if he managed to embarrass them with his antics.
Paul brought his unique, “funky spirit” to every job he held. From substitute teaching in the Tomah School District to working at Fort McCoy and Kwik Trip, he had a way of bringing a smile to everyone’s face, a trait that became a comfort to many.
After Brenda’s passing in 2019, Paul’s light was rekindled by the growth of his family. He found his deepest happiness in his children’s milestones—marriages, engagements, and the families they built—and cherished becoming a grandparent. Nothing brought him more joy than playing with his grandkids, Bennett and Rory. He was a willing participant in every adventure, from playing hide-and-seek and taking trips to the zoo, to getting soaked at waterparks and even enduring the chaos of Chuck E. Cheese. In his later years, he also found companionship and comfort with his significant other, Diane, exploring every patio in LaCrosse and listening to live music.
Paul will be remembered for his kind heart, his quirky sense of humor, and his unwavering love for his family. He is survived by his children, Mitchell (Karah), Mariah (Dirk), and Melissa (Hunter); his grandchildren, Bennett and Rory; his mother, Delores; his brother, Greg (Katie); his in-laws, Jerry and Susie Frank; his significant other, Diane; and many loving extended family members.
Paul is now reunited with his beloved wife, Brenda, and his father, David.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 513 S. Pine Street, Caledonia, MN, 55921. Father Andrew Vogel will officiate. Burial will immediately follow at Calvary Cemetery in Caledonia, MN. Family and friends are invited for a visitation on Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home, 2224 S. Superior Avenue, Tomah, WI, 54660, as well as on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
