Henry Clayton Paulsen II

Henry Clayton Paulsen II, born on October 3, 1935, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, passed away peacefully in his sleep in Dallas, Texas on Tuesday, July 23, 2024. A man of kindness, immense loyalty, wit, and deep faith, Henry leaves behind a legacy deeply imprinted on the hearts of all who knew him.

He was the son of Henry Clayton Paulsen I and Dorothy Mangelsdorf Paulsen and brother to Carol Look. A proud alumnus of Cornell University, Henry earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering and embarked on a lifelong journey of innovation and excellence. Henry designed the breathing apparatus chest pack for Astronaut Ed White’s first spacewalk on the 1965 Gemini V mission. He oversaw the thermodynamics for all Gemini missions. For 19 years, Henry was Senior Vice President of Information Technology at Dresser Industries. His career reflected his innate desire to solve problems and positively impact those around him. In his personal time, he was an active member and Elder at Highland Park Presbyterian Church.

Henry would tell you that his career wasn't his greatest achievement. That honor belonged to June 15, 1957, when he married the love of his life Susan Danforth Paulsen. Together, they embarked on a 66-year journey marked by commitment, laughter, and the enduring warmth of true companionship. Their union was blessed with two children, Dorothy Paulsen Hurwitz, and Henry Clayton Paulsen III. Four grandchildren followed: Susan Louise Hurwitz, Elizabeth Anne Hurwitz, Henry Clayton Paulsen IV, and Hunter Danforth Paulsen. As a grandfather, he reveled in the pleasures of family gatherings and cherished moments spent with the youngest members of his family. Sadly, his wife Susan preceded him in death on December 16, 2023.

Henry Clayton Paulsen II will be remembered not only for his academic and professional achievements, but more importantly, for the love he generously shared with his family and friends. His kindness, wisdom, and devotion touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him, and he will forever remain in our hearts.