Paul Stephen Beard

Paul Beard, age 79, of Cottage Grove, Minnesota passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

Paul is lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary Flesner Beard; his children Brian of Norristown, PA, Sean (Mariah) of Salem, MA, and Jennifer (Adam) Ferst of Norristown, PA; his sisters Lynne (Graham) Burke of Orangeville, ON, and Janice Cannizzo of Fort Worth, FL; and his stepchildren John (Beeta) Gualdoni of Woodbury, MN, Jamie (Tara) Gualdoni of Maple Grove, MN, and AnnaMary (Derek) Gualdoni-Smith of May Township, MN. He was the proud grandfather of Bella, Gianna, Isaac, Keira, Gia, and Piper, who fondly knew him as “PopPop.”

Raised in Syracuse, NY, Paul graduated from the Manlius School (Military Preparatory School) before earning degrees from Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA, and the American University Washington College of Law in Washington, D.C., where he received his Juris Doctorate.

Over the course of his career, Paul practiced law and worked as a Certified Financial Planner for several financial institutions, roles that allowed him to travel widely. A lifelong learner with a deep curiosity, Paul held a special passion for history—particularly World War II and Native American culture. He shared that passion generously as a dedicated volunteer at the Minnesota History Center.

Paul also had a profound appreciation for the arts, especially music and theatre, which brought him joy throughout his life. He was an active and faithful member of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Cottage Grove, where he found both community and purpose. Rooted in his Scottish heritage, Paul took great joy in the simple tradition of sharing a single malt scotch with family and friends.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Eilene Beard, and his wife, Sandra Beard. His kindness, intellect, and generosity will be missed deeply by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1pm on Saturday, November 15th with a visitation one hour prior to the service at St. Luke Lutheran Church, 7000 Hinton Ave. S.; Cottage Grove, MN.

Memorials can be made to St. Luke Lutheran Church, the Minnesota Historical Society, or donate blood to your local Red Cross.