Obituary for Paula Hase-Mickelson

She is preceded in death by her husband Michael “Yak” Mickelson; parents Tom and Dixie (Breitung) Hase and brother-in-law James “Tucker” Weissenberger.

  Survived by: daughter Jessica (Hase) and Troy Crogan,  son Brandon and Julie (McGinnis) Lanahan; stepson Chad and Carrie (McConnell) Mickelson; grandchildren, Madisen and McKenna Mueller, Emma Russell, Leelon Lanahan, Jett, Liberty, and Meier Mickelson; great grandchild Desiree Smith; sister Amy (Hase) Weissenberger; Nephew Heath and Morgan (Kozey) Weissenberger; niece Heather (Weissenberger) and Michael Kolovos and their children Noah and Karson Kolovos; her dog Bentley.  

Paula’s journey in healthcare began when she started working at her aunt sis’s (Geraldine Long) nursing home, The Pepin Manor in Pepin, WI.  She graduated from Viterbo University, where she earned her Bachelor’s in Science in Nursing.  She embarked on her career at Gundersen Lutheran, she worked in neurology and urology and later transitioned to the ICU, where she passionately served as a trauma nurse.  After more than 20 years at Gundersen, Paula ventured into a new role as a case manager at Fort McCoy, bringing her expertise to support and guide those in need.

Beyond her healthcare profession, Paula extended her caring nature to various areas of her life.  She selflessly volunteered as a first responder in North Bend, Wisconsin, always ready to lend a helping hand in emergencies.  She also pursued her passion for real estate, embracing the opportunity to help people find their ideal homes.  Paula actively participated in the North Bend Wisconsin homemakers club, where she shared her skills, knowledge, and love for community.  

Her warm and nurturing nature resonated with everyone she encountered.  She touched the lives of countless individuals, not only through her career but also through her unwavering dedication as a remarkable mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.  Paula was known for her selflessness and willingness to be wherever she was needed.  Paula’s immense love for her family was evident in everything she did.  People who know her, knew she was stubborn.  While her stubbornness may have posed challenges at times, it was an essential aspect of Paula’s character that contributed to her strength and tenacity.Her strong-willed disposition influenced her personal endeavors.  She pursued her passions and interests with a sense of conviction, never hesitating to stand up for what she believed in.  Her desire to have things her way was rooted in a deep understanding of her own preferences and commitment to living life authentically. She embraced life fearlessly, indulging in her passions for horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventures. Her artistic spirit shone through with her love for art, tending to her flowers, swimming in her pool, crafting, sewing, and enjoying music.

Visitation for Paula Hase-Mickelson will be held at the Fredrickson Funeral Home, located at 121 North Youlon Street, West Salem, WI, on Thursday July 20th, from 4:00 pm-7:00 pm. Family friends, and acquaintances are welcome to attend and pay their respects during this time.  The Funeral Services to honor Paula’s life take place at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, located at 353 Leonard Street North, West Salem, WI on Friday July 21st, at 1:00 pm with a visitation to be held one hour prior. Following the services, there will be a gathering to celebrate Paula’s life to share memories, and support one another. In lieu of flowers, Paula’s family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to the Paula Hase-Mickelson Viterbo Single Mother Scholarship, as a testament to her enduring legacy of compassion and support for others.  

Paula Hase-Mickelson will be deeply missed.  Her memory will forever live in the hearts of all those she touched.  May she rest in peace, knowing the profound impact she had on the world around her.  A special thank you to the Onalaska Mayo dialysis team and hospice team as well as all the doctors and nurses involved in her care over the years.

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