“Roy” was born in Breckenridge, Minnesota, the son of Art & Catherine Paulson of Mantador. He grew up on the family farm, attended elementary school in Mantador, and graduated from St. Francis Academy in Hankinson in 1959. From 1960 - 1964, Roy served in the U.S. Air Force. After the service, Roy studied aircraft maintenance & obtained his Aircraft & Powerplant license. While in school, he started working for Continental Airlines as a baggage handler, and ultimately became one of Continental’s chief mechanics. In the early 1980’s he helped form a new airline, America West, based in Phoenix, AZ. As the Vice President of Technical Services, Roy was responsible for all maintenance on the airplanes flown by the airline. Roy left America West in 1994 and for several years thereafter was a valued consultant for several aviation operations throughout the world. Roy was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters (Monica and Carol), & his 1st wife (Meem). He is survived by his 2nd wife (Diane), his brother (David), two remaining sisters (Elaine & Mary), six nieces & nephews, and 10 great nieces & nephews.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Shadow Mountain Mortuary in Phoenix, Arizona. Memorial donations may be made to Chandler-Gilbert Community College, 7360 E. Tahoe Ave., Mesa, AZ 85212 for their Aircraft Maintenance Technology Scholarship, a program Roy assisted in creating.
