Gary Paulsen

Gary Paulsen was born in Chicago Heights, Illinois, and spent much of his childhood in Crown Point, Indiana. In 1969, he moved to Pasadena, California, where he joined the United States Navy. After completing his service, Gary worked alongside his father in the family dry cleaning business.

In 1974, Gary’s life was forever changed after hearing a sermon on Matthew 5:3 — “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” That message led him to place his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. From that moment on, Gary developed a deep passion for studying and teaching God’s Word. Soon after his conversion, he began teaching in his local church, leading groups that ranged from 4th graders to junior high students to post-college adults — it was in that last class that he met his wife, Dorothy.

In the mid-1980s, Gary began attending Bible institute classes at Grace Community Church under the ministry of Pastor John MacArthur. Inspired by the rich biblical teaching, Gary enrolled in The Master’s Seminary in 1989. He graduated in 1993 with a Bachelor of Theology degree and was soon called to serve as the lead pastor of a small church plant in Glendora, California.

In 1996, Gary and his family relocated to Eugene, Oregon, where he returned to the dry cleaning industry. Even while working full-time, Gary remained active in ministry — serving in the Jr. High/High School Awana program, leading Bible studies, teaching Sunday school theology classes, and occasionally preaching at Emerald Bible Fellowship. During this time, he also worked part-time as a fly fishing guide on the McKenzie River, enjoying God’s creation in a hands-on way.

Gary and Dorothy are blessed with four children — Nathaniel, Emily, Casey, and Laura — and six wonderful grandchildren.