Paul Duane Sorum, 89, of Rushford, Minn., passed away at his home on Saturday, July 22, 2023, following a short battle with lung cancer. Paul was born on July 25, 1933, in La Crosse, Wis., to Carl and Ellen (Ferden) Sorum. Paul attended Rushford High School and was a 1951 graduate. Following high school Paul farmed on the family farm, established in 1882. Paul married Esther Solberg on June 2, 1956, and recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. Together they raised six children.
Paul was a mechanic, veterinarian, and welder; a regular jack of all trades, and he quickly taught his sons to do the same. He enjoyed riding the tractor and would spend endless hours in the field, oftentimes well into the evening. He enjoyed antiques, and watching the Antique Tractor Club thrashing oats. Old cars and tractors kept his interest for hours. He looked forward to family gatherings and always enjoyed having visitors at the farm, especially sharing the stories of the Indian Chapel and taking them on an adventure to see it. His companions, Lucky and Blue, and many other dogs held a special place in his heart.
In addition to farming, Paul was involved in Rushford JayCees, Rushford Valley Crest Riders Snowmobile Club, Rushford Village Board, and Peterson Credit Union, as well as a member of the Rushford Lutheran Church.
Paul is survived by his wife of 67 years, Esther; four daughters: Shelley (Ed) Bowen of Harrison, Ark., Pam (Paul) Brand of Rushford, Wendy (Glenn) Agrimson of Peterson, Barb (Rick) Johnson of Rushford; two sons, Duane and Dan of Rushford; 11 grandchildren: Nikki, Phil (Sara), Tim (Dana), Jordan (Shelby), Tory, Ryan (Sarah), Jen (Ryan), Jared, Chip, KayCee (Jamie), and Kyle; 19 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and two sisters, Lois Barthelme, and Jane Fransen.
He was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Ellen Sorum, two brothers, Glenn and Clarence; and two sisters, Marlys McCallson and Betty Johnson.
A memorial service is planned for 3 p.m. on Friday, July 28, 2023, at Hoff Funeral Home, with visitation from 1:30 p.m. until the time of the service on Friday. Online condolences can be made at www.hofffuneral.com.