Paul Joseph Brihn

Paul Joseph Brihn passed away unexpectedly at his home on November 1, 2025, at the age of 77.

Born on September 25, 1948, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Paul was the son of Paul and Delores Brihn. He graduated from Harding High School before proudly enlisting in the U.S. Army in January 1967. Paul served 2.5 terms of duty in Vietnam with honor as a member of the 11th Infantry Brigade. For his bravery and dedication, he was awarded both the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.

In later years, Paul spent many years behind the wheel as a tour bus driver, and also a semi-truck driver, a profession he continued until his retirement. Known for his incredible sense of direction, Paul was the one everyone called when they got lost—he truly was a human GPS.

On August 20, 1988, Paul married Vickie (Hooyman), in Greenville, WI. Together they settled in Forest Lake, MN, where Paul poured his heart into fixing up their first home. There they raised their two daughters, LeAnn and Courtney, in a home filled with love, laughter, and lots of rules. Paul was a devoted father who loved sharing life’s simple joys—teaching his girls to chop wood, helping coach their softball teams, deer hunting, attending country music festivals, or camping.

Paul cherished time spent with family and friends, whether it was breakfast at the local café with his trucking buddies or weekends at the lake in Cushing, which later became their retirement home. At the lake, he loved going boating, tubing, teaching friends how to water ski, having campfires, and enjoying the company.

After retiring, Paul and Vickie became snowbirds, spending winters in Arizona where they embraced the sunshine and the community of their park. Paul loved exploring the desert trails in his side-by-side, always ready for another off-road adventure.

No matter where he was, Paul kept in touch with his friends from “the office,” never missing a daily call. He also had a legendary sweet tooth—his candy dish was always full of tootsie rolls and bit-o-honeys, and his grandchildren knew exactly where Grandpa’s stash was. He delighted in sharing treats, finding good bargains (especially on tires), always making sure to get his military discount, and starting each morning with his Folgers coffee before diving into research for his next great deal online.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Vickie; his daughters, LeAnn (Andrew) and Courtney (Jesse); and his cherished grandchildren, Mason and Mia, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his daughter from his previous marriage, Renee Brousseau and grandchildren, Amanda & Cole; his sister, Patty Senecal; and special nephews and niece Alan Brihn, Scott Brihn and Micki Alden; along with many other brother and sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Delores Brihn; his brothers, Pat and Jim Brihn; his brother-in-laws, Roger and Randy Hooyman; and his father-in-law, Robert Hooyman.

Paul’s life will be celebrated with a service at 12 PM Saturday, November 15th with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. Private interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Paul will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, sense of humor, and the deep love he had for his family and friends. His stories, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.