John (JD) Paulsen, 69, of Westwood, MA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 22, 2021 after a brief battle with a recent illness.

John was born in Brighton and raised in South Boston, MA “Southie”. He was a kind man with a big heart, full of patience and compassion. A gentle soul with great respect for others and a huge love of nature. On any given day John could be found walking in the woods, riding his bike, enjoying the clean air of the White Mountains, or hiking in the Blue Hills. He loved walks in the rain, thunderstorms, and always looked for the rainbow after each storm. He also loved spending time at Castle Island in Southie where he grew up. Nature truly was his home.

In addition to his deep love of the outdoors, John was known for his sense of humor and infectious laugh. His ability to make others laugh came so effortlessly. Any day spent with him was always lighthearted and full of laughs. Those who knew John in his younger years remember him for his unmatched boxing skills. John spent much of his youth competing in boxing tournaments. John’s younger brother Bill describes him as “He never went looking for trouble, but when trouble found him, he turned into 140lbs of pure steel!”

Recently when John was asked what his best memories were, he answered “raising my girls”. Today John’s daughters state, “growing up with him as our father was the greatest gift we could have ever asked for.” John was deeply loved by so many, and will remain in these hearts for eternity.

Survived by his three beloved daughters, Kendra Leahy, Danielle Paulsen, Lindsay Dillon, four beautiful grandchildren, sisters Denise Foley and Elizabeth Paulsen, brothers Leo, William, and, Richard Paulsen, and long-time companion, Tran.

John was predeceased by his cherished mother Elizabeth Paulsen (Rooney), father Leo Paulsen and brother Edward Paulsen.

John’s life will be celebrated according to his wishes. A small private outdoor ceremony will be held in his honor.

All are welcome and encouraged to share a message or memory of John here for his friends and family to cherish always.

“God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you and whispered, “Come to Me”. “With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay.” “A golden heart stopped beating, hard-working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.”