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Paul Specht, age 89, of Mahnomen, MN passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Benedictine Living Community in Ada, MN.

Paul Arthur Specht, the son of Arthur and Hilda (Wendt) Specht, was born on August 4, 1935, and spent his formative years on the family farm near Mahnomen, where he cultivated a love for the land and livestock.

After graduating from Crookston Agricultural School in 1953, Paul returned to Mahnomen to take the reins of the family farm, embracing the ranching lifestyle with passion and pride. After living the bachelor life for many years, Paul was united in marriage to Patricia Thomson in 1975, and together they raised a family of four children on Rocky Hills Polled Gelbvieh Farm.

Paul was especially fond of his cattle, often giving them names and hand-feeding them, a testament to his deep connection with his animals. Paul's commitment to his work was matched only by his strong faith. A lifelong member of the Missouri Synod congregation, he drew strength from his beliefs and shared them with those around him. He was also a fixture in the community, gathering daily at the Red Apple with the "knights of the round table," where his wholesome sense of humor and enjoyment of telling stories was known to many. Strong-willed and independent, Paul was known for his honesty and integrity. After the passing of his prized stud in 2018, he made the decision to retire, yet he continued to live on the farm until his recent move to Benedictine Living Community.

Paul is survived by his wife, Patricia of Detroit Lakes, MN; children: Deb (Mike) Luksik of Otsego, MN, Fred (Amy) Specht of Ada, MN, Art (Stacy) Specht of Detroit Lakes, MN, and Sarah (Greg) Clark of Shakopee, MN; five grandchildren: Anna, Alex, Avery, Carson, and Joseph; three step-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A heartfelt Thank You to the nurses and staff of Hospice of the Red River Valley for his care and support in his final months.

A Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, October 28, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Twin Valley, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery in Mahnomen, MN.