Paul W. Briest

Paul W. Briest, 95 years old, passed away peacefully at home on August 25, 2026.

He was born on May 18, 1931 in Tripp, South Dakota. He spent most of his early years in Wisconsin and graduated from Merrill High School, before joining the military. Paul proudly served 24 years in the U.S. Air Force. In addition to serving at SAC headquarters, he had been stationed throughout the U.S. and Great Britain as well as a tour in Vietnam. He was a talented carpenter and craftsman and enjoyed making things for family and friends. He was also an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Nebraska Cornhuskers and Wisconsin Badgers.

Paul was preceded in death by parents Paul C. Briest, Elsie R. (Briest) Ranker and step-father Arthur Ranker. Also, his first wife Rose L. Briest and second wife Marilyn J. Briest, step-son Allan Gulke, grandson Nick Gulke as well as two step-brothers and one step-sister.

He is survived by his three children: Stephen (Theresa) Briest, Ronald Briest and Linda (Allen) Otten. Also survived by grandchildren Cherish (Brett) Geiger, Julie Otten, Daniel (Terri) Briest, Matthew (Magdelena) Briest, Mark (Kayla) Otten and Robert Briest, great-grandchildren Isabella Geiger, Kayla Otten, Taylor Otten and Connor Stephens.

Also surviving are step-children Joanne Drew, Janice (Frank Yasunaga) Gulke, Dennis Gulke and Brian (Sharon) Gulke and several step-grandchildren and step-great-granchildren.

He will be interred at the Omaha National Cemetery in Omaha, NE. Funeral services will be held on September 28 at 12:30 P.M.. There will be a gathering after the service at 2:00 P.M. (location to be announced after the service).

Paul requested memorials, instead of flowers, be made to Wounded Warriors Project at their website (www.Wounded Warrior Project).