Paul J. Stanina

Paul J. Stanina age 67 of Nashwauk passed away unexpectedly Sunday June 9, 2024. He was born September 19, 1956 in Hibbing, MN to Frank and Janet (McNamara) Stanina. Paul grew up in Pengilly, close to Swan Lake, where he attended Nashwauk High School graduating in 1974. Following graduation he went to Staples Vo-Tech college in Staples, MN earning his degree in machining. On June 18, 1977 Paul married his high school sweetheart Nancy Koppes at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church in Nashwauk. Paul worked at Hibbing Taconite for almost 43 years, beginning his career in July of 1976. In 2015 Paul became the proud owner and operator of the Birdcage Motel in Madelia, MN. Paul was an involved member of the community. He especially enjoyed watching and being a part of his children and grandchildren’s sports and extracurricular activities. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Boy Scouts when his sons were involved and spent time coaching his grandkids soccer teams. Paul enjoyed his time traveling around the country, and could be found on the back of a motorcycle with his wife, driving with family to visit relatives in other states, or flying for a quick trip. He also traveled to numerous countries over the years and visited Europe multiple times, where he enjoyed learning about his heritage. His most recent adventure abroad was to Japan. Over the years, Paul and his wife hosted 9 foreign exchange students. Paul enjoyed deer hunting as well as tinkering on his 1957 Chevy Bel Air that he brought from California in the 80’s. Paul was well known for lending a helping hand to anyone in need at any time, whether he knew them or not. He is survived by his children, Robert (Tabbatha) Stanina, Nashwauk, MN, Shane Stanina, Pengilly, MN, and Franki Stanina, Madelia, MN, his sister, Kathryn Kotula, Hibbing, MN, his grandchildren, Joslynn Jordan, Dominik Stanina, Temperance Stanina, Devon Stanina, Grace “Beans” Stanina, many nieces, nephews, extended relatives and friends. He will be especially missed by Terilyn Harbitz, her children Allison Karau, Andrew Karau, Dylan Harbitz and grandchildren Aryn, Memphis, and Gatlin. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Janet, and his wife, Nancy. Funeral services will be held 1pm Sunday, June 23, 2024 at St. Cecilias Catholic Church in Nashwauk. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until the beginning of the service at 1:00 pm at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are recommended to go towards Firefighting for Healing C/O Jake Laferriere. (https://firefightershealing.flipcause.com/hosted_widget/hostedWidgetHome/MzYzMzQ=)