Paul was born on June 10, 1946, in Williston, ND, the oldest of four children born to Lester and Gladys (Felland) Wisness of Keene. He was baptized and confirmed at Keene First Lutheran Church, where he was a lifetime member. He was raised on the family farm and ranch. Paul attended Keene School through the 8th grade. He then attended Watford City High School where he wrestled and played football, graduating in 1964. After graduation, he went on to attend North Dakota State University (NDSU) for 2 years. In 1966, Paul was drafted into the United States Army, serving as a combat medic in Vietnam for 1 year. In 1968, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. Upon his return, he continued his education at NDSU, then transferred to NDSU-Bottineau School of Forestry where he obtained an Associate’s Degree in Science and Agriculture. He briefly attended Dickinson State University (DSU). After college, Paul joined his dad and brother, Milo, on the family homestead to farm and ranch together.

Paul married Sandra Sannes on December 22, 1973, at First Lutheran Church in Watford City. They lived a short time in Watford City, before moving to north of Keene where they made their home, living there for the next 42 years. They were blessed with two adopted children: a son, Brett, and a daughter, Britnee. In 2015, they built their retirement home in Watford City, in the “perfect location”, according to, Paul.

Paul believed in serving his community, as well as, his country and did so through his participation on many boards: the Keene First Lutheran Church, the Reservation Telephone Cooperative (RTC) as a director for 33 years, the McKenzie County Grazing Association, the McKenzie County Job Development Authority (JDA), the Dakota Quality Grain Cooperative, and the American Legion Carl E. Rogen Post 29, where he once served as Commander. He was a proud member of the American Legion Drill Team of Watford City for 25 years and was member of the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association for over 35 years.

Paul enjoyed countless trips and many hours hunting big game. He always looked forward to local fall hunting with his family and friends. His other hobbies included golfing, fishing, and attending his kids’ and grandkids’ sporting events.

Paul’s faith was very important to him. His love for Jesus was apparent through his interaction with his family, grandkids, neighbors, and friends. He treated everyone with kindness and respect. He was known for his quick wit and charming ways, which led him to making numerous friends through the years. Paul truly never met a stranger, only a friend he hadn’t known yet.

In June 2024, Paul became a resident of the Good Shepherd Home in Watford City, residing there for nearly one year before moving to Country House in Dickinson, ND. In August 2025, he was admitted to McKenzie County Hospital where he remained until his passing.

Paul is survived by his wife, Sandi, of 51 years of Watford City; son, Brett (Amanda) Wisness, and their children, Wyatt, William, and Ava of Watford City; daughter, Britnee (Tyrel) Sveet and their children, Brynlee and Theo of Watford City; sister, Jane (Dwight) Mangel of Lakewood, CO; sisters-in-law, Julie Wisness of Watford City, Sharon Eastwood of Fridley, MN, Elaine Lingor of Pittsburg, KS, Julie (Dennis) Gray of Highlands Ranch, CO, Donna (Gary) Bordner of Grand Rapids, MN; many nieces, nephews, and cousins who were a very important part of his life; as well as, two special caretakers, Celia Meza and Jenny Wodelet, who became like family to him.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Gladys Wisness; brothers, Milo & Gary Wisness; nephews, Joshua, Russell, & Levi Wisness; Mother-in-law and Father-in-law, Allen and Florence Sannes; brothers-in-law, Jim Eastwood and Dan Lingor.

Memorial Contribution