Paul Gerald Bouley

Paul Gerald Bouley, age 76, of Elk River, died on Dec. 31, 2024 at Guardian Angels Care Center while under the care of hospice. He was born in Minneapolis on August 8, 1948, and was joined minutes later by a twin sister.

Paul graduated from Golden Valley High School in 1966. In July of 1967, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He left for Viet Nam in January of 1968. Paul saw some of the worst action of the Vietnam War, and on June 10, 1968, he was injured at Khe Sanh. The experience had a lasting impact on his life. He spent months in a hospital in Japan, and a couple more at the Great Lakes Naval Hospital. He was awarded a Purple Heart for his sacrifice, and he was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans. Paul was honorably discharged in February 1970.

Paul overcame a lot in his life. He had multiple eye surgeries for his war injuries, and a significant hearing loss due to the blast when he was injured. For over a decade he dealt with shrapnel that would migrate in his body, and at times, find its’ way out. A brief marriage ended amicably. He resolved an alcohol problem at age 27. He built himself an earth-sheltered home in Zimmerman where he lived modestly almost all of his adult life. It was the perfect home for a returning soldier. Earth sheltered on three sides, but full of sun and views of nature on the south side. Twenty five acres of land gave him the peace and privacy he craved.

Paul had a successful career as a proud member of Pipefitters Local 539.

He was preceded in death by parents, Emmett and Mabel O. Bouley.

He is survived by sister, Janet (Denny) Miller; brother, Dean ( Sandi) Bouley; and twin sister, Paulette (John) Cervenka.

A private interment will be held in the Spring.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul Gerald Bouley, please visit our floral store.