Paul D. Francois Sr., 76, of Dassel passed onto his heavenly home on August 30, 2025. He was born in Manchester, England, on August 1, 1949, to Murphy and Eleanor June Francois.
 As a child, Paul lived in England, France, Portugal and Japan as well as many locations in the United States. He never lost his love of travel and of meeting new and interesting people. In 1969, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a medic in Vietnam where he earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star and other commendation, citing his bravery, valor, loyalty and devotion to duty. Returning stateside, he pursued nurse/nurse practitioner degrees from University of Alabama and went on to serve as a lieutenant in the Army National Guard Nurse Corps.
 His love for delivering healthcare in rural communities was kindled in South Dakota where he opened the first of the four clinics he would later start. He was most proud that all these clinics are still serving their communities today.
 Paul and Laurie married in 1980 and began the adventure that was their life. Working together and raising their family were the joys of their early years and watching their children mature and have spouses and families of their own was priceless to them. Although Paul’s career was cut short by injury and illness, his giving nature and service to others continued to his death.
 Paul is survived by the love of his life Laurie, sons, Paul (Kristin) and Alex (Krysten), daughter Abbey (Craig) and brother Patrick (Kathryn). He will be greatly missed by grandchildren Ella, Sawyer, Ira and Liam. His service dog Hunter is lost without him. He was preceded in death by his brother Michael and his parents.
 A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held on Saturday, September 27 at Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Dassel. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., service at 11 a.m. with luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in Paul’s name.