Paul Martin

Paul Francis Martin, age 91, of Chisago City, MN, passed away at home on October 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, and love. Paul shared 68 beautiful years of marriage with his loving wife and devoted caregiver, Donna (Ginsky) Martin. Together they built a life rooted in faith, resilience, daily devotions, and shared puzzles at the dining room table. Their life together was marked by enduring strength and companionship.

Just weeks before his passing, Paul reflected on how his battle with cancer had brought him and Donna even closer together. He described the depth of their connection in words that will forever remain with his family: They had become so close that they were "touching each other's souls."

Born January 1, 1935, to Helen (Norton) and Francis (Frank) Martin, Paul was the firstborn of the Martin children. He was preceded in death by his parents; his firstborn daughter, Katherine McLaughlin; his twin sisters, Jean Sager and Janet Striker; and his brother, Robert (Bobby) Martin.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Donna; his youngest sister, Helen Ann Larson; his children, Lori (Ed) Grice, Michael (Vicki) Martin, and Dr. Lisa (Anthony) Szymanski; nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A proud Army veteran of the Korean War era, Paul volunteered to serve his country. He later worked for 30 years as a letter carrier with the United States Postal Service in Edina, MN.

Paul possessed a rare gift for being truly present with people. Whether speaking with ambulance drivers, physicians, nurses, or hospital housekeeping staff, he often knew someone's life story after a single conversation. He valued honesty, authenticity, and meaningful connection over social pretense.

An enthusiastic gardener with an exceptionally green thumb, Paul delighted in watching something beautiful grow under his care.

On November 17, 2025, Paul received his 55-year sobriety medallion, presented by his daughter, Dr. Lisa Szymanski. Through Alcoholics Anonymous, he served in leadership roles and helped others struggling with addiction. The Twelve Steps were not only his framework for sobriety but also guided how he tried to live each day, grounded in honesty, service, humility, and integrity.

Paul's Catholic faith was central to his life. He and Donna shared daily devotions and participated in parish activities and Eucharistic adoration throughout their marriage.

Paul fought a long and courageous two-year battle with esophageal cancer, demonstrating extraordinary strength, resilience, and an unwavering will to live. He never allowed his age to define his possibilities or diminish his hope. Even through tremendous physical suffering and countless challenges, he remained determined to keep fighting for the life he loved and the people he cherished. His courage was a testament to the remarkable strength of his spirit.

Above all, Paul was real. A man who chose depth over comfort, truth over appearance, and connection over convention. He will be missed more than words can express, but the love he shared and the lives he touched will remain part of his enduring legacy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 7th at St. Bridget of Sweden Catholic Church in Lindstrom, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior and luncheon to follow. A private family burial will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in the spring.  Arrangements by the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom.  Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com