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Gordon Paulsen
GORDON JON PAULSEN
Cedar Rapids
Gordon Jon Paulsen, KCCK jazz radio "icon" and lifelong resident of Cedar Rapids, died Monday, April 9, 2018, in Dubuque. Gordon's memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 14, at the Keystone Turner Hall in Keystone, Iowa. Pastor Don Drahos will preside.
Gordon was born Nov. 4, 1953, in Grinnell, Iowa, to Dr. Donald and Ruth (Franzenburg) Paulsen. He graduated from Washington High School, Cedar Rapids, in 1972 and attended Drake University. Gordon worked at KCCK radio as the jazz programmer and radio host for 37 years. Most listeners remember him for his deep, comforting voice, which one devotee said was like settling into an easy chair and pulling up a warm
blanket. Many others expressed gratitude because he introduced them to a love and appreciation for jazz.
Gordon is survived by his son, Adam Paulsen, Cedar Rapids; sister, Gretchen (Bill) Enke, Coralville; brother, Greg Paulsen (Mary Coan), Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.
Gordon was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Glenda Paulsen.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be donated to KCCK/Jazz Under the Stars, Gordon Paulsen Memorial, 6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
Special thanks to Dr. Ian Koontz, Dr. Mark Herman, Dr. Aruna Turaka and Tony Heiar, ARNP, of Dubuque and Hospice of Dubuque for giving Gordon excellent health care.
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