Thomas M. Paulson Sr., 89, entered into rest on April 23, 2009 in Manteca. He was born on April 24, 1919 in Jewitt, Ohio. He was a resident of Modesto since 1992 and previously of Manteca since 1949. He joins his wife of 50 years in heaven Geneva Paulson.

Thomas is survived by his children Thomas Paulson Jr. of Fremont, Dean Paulson of Elk Grove, Matt Rouse of San Ramon, and Lisa Buhk of Manteca. He was blessed by 10 grandchildren; Tom, Michelle, Tommy, Jeff, Stephanie, Starla, Aaron, Dillon, William and Kristin, as well as 10 great- grandchildren.

Before retirement Thomas was a counselor for DVI for over 27 years. Thomas had a passion for locomotives. His passion started in 1945 when he landed a job with Sharps Army Depot as a railroad engineer. Thomas stayed with Sharps for over 5 years and at that time he began his mini-locomotives collection and special train memorabilia collection. He enjoyed fishing and enjoyed watching sports on television. He was a member of St. Paul’s Methodist Church of Manteca for over 30 years. He will be remembered as a simple man who was very reserved. He loved his family deeply as they loved him.

Mr. Paulson’s services are being directed by P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home of Manteca. A celebration of life service will be held on Monday. April 27, at 11 a.m. at P.L. Fry & Son Funeral Home 290 N. Union Road, Manteca. Burial will be at Park View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to the American Cancer Society 207 E. Alpine Ave. Stockton, Ca 95204.