Paul J. Deegan

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Deegan, Paul J. of Eden Prairie passed away on April 3, 2017 after a long illness. He was born to Ray and Ellen (Coughlin) Deegan on March 19, 1937 in Mankato, MN. A 1955 graduate of Loyola High School, Mankato, MN, he was active in athletics and debate. A highlight of his life was being inducted into the Loyola Hall of Fame in 2004. After graduating from the University of Minnesota in 1959 with a degree in journalism, he was a sports writer for the Minnesota Daily. On September 24, 1960, he married Dorothy Schreiner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in New Ulm, MN. They lived briefly in Austin before moving to Mankato where he was a reporter and editor at the Mankato Free Press and later wrote for the Catholic Bulletin. Throughout his life, Paul loved reading and writing. He wrote over 80 children's books. He was an avid runner, tennis player, sports enthusiast, and one of the founders of the Mankato Little League. Paul had a passion for learning and served on the Mankato School board where he was chairman for five years. He perfected the art of conversation and leaves behind many life-long friends. We will all miss his Irish wit. Paul & Dorothy eventually moved to Eden Prairie, where they have resided since 1989. Paul was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Dorothy, and their children; Lisa Frandsen (Joseph) of Eden Prairie, Michael (Susan) of Chanhassen, John (Lisa) of Shakopee; eight grandchildren, Megan (Andrew Burt), Matt, Nick, Katie, Mollie, Ryan, McKenna and Jack; brother Daniel Deegan (Barb) of Edina, and many nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, April 7th, 11 a.m. at Pax Christi Catholic Community, 12100 Pioneer Trail, Eden Prairie, with visitation one hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to St. Gertrude's Health and Rehabilitation Center, 1850 Sarazin St., Shakopee, MN 55379, in gratitude for the love and care shown to Paul the past two years. Washburn-McReavy.com Eden Prairie Chapel 952-975-0400

Published on April 5, 2017