Paul Anthony Bernabucci

Prayer Service: https://vimeo.com/event/5026464

Funeral Mass: https://vimeo.com/event/5026490

Tribute Video: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/5FCFQHRD5KGQ2SBD

Paul Bernabucci crossed to be with his Lord Jesus on March 8, 2025, while on an extended cruise in Asia with his wife, Gail.

Paul was born on March 30, 1955 to Jack and Jeri Bernabucci in Jamestown, North Dakota, where he lived until he was 22. After he married Connie (Fregein) Bernabucci, Paul received training to go into the family Coca-Cola business. They spent 15 years in La Crosse, WI, where they had their three children and where Paul managed Coca-Cola operations throughout the state. After selling the family business in 1990, Paul received a degree from Viterbo College. After graduation they moved to Fargo, North Dakota, where Paul developed Provident Partners, specializing in commercial property development and management.  Paul valued the relationships he built with his customers and tenants over the years.

Paul loved his children so very much, enjoying years of watching countless hockey games, tinkering in the shop, trap shooting, and hunting. He culminated his hunting years by shooting an elk in Montana in 2019. Paul proudly spent several years building Shelby Cobras for him and his family. Paul’s buttons would bust when he shared his fatherly pride of CJ becoming a Major in the US Air Force and flying UAVs. Spending time with his ten grandchildren was very important to Paul.

In 2013, after a lengthy 17-year engagement (long story), Paul married his best friend, Gail (Miller) Bernabucci. During their nearly 30 years together, they enjoyed scuba diving in the Florida Keys, riding their Harley Davidson motorcycles, road trips, and traveling to over 100 countries. In the fall of 2024, after five years of planning, Paul and Gail departed on their small yacht, Sea Raiders, to complete the ‘Great Loop,’ taking them in a circle around the eastern half of the United States. Unfortunately, they got as far as St. Louis and had to suspend the trip due to hurricanes in Florida. Paul and Gail both served on the Board of the St. Paul Sail and Power Squadron, and were certified by the Coast Guard to conduct vessel safety checks on boats under 50 feet.

From his father, Paul developed a passion for aviation, which he then passed on to his children. He served many years on the Board of Directors for the Fargo Air Museum, retiring as Vice Chairman. He earned his private pilot license; additionally, instrument, multi-engine, and commercial ratings. He was also a licensed aircraft power plant and airframe mechanic. One of Paul’s favorite aviation memories was when he flew with six friends to Alaska in their personal small aircraft. Paul also road tripped often with his best friend in life, Kent Ableidinger. Together they would explore places less travelled, antiquing their way along the journey.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Jeri Bernabucci, and his daughter, Marisa Stefani. He is survived by his wife, Gail Bernabucci; sister, Mary; sons, CJ (April) Bernabucci and Mario (Ruby) Bernabucci; son-in-law, Robert Stefani; and nieces, Alanna and Lindsey. Beloved grandkids are Sienna, Briley, Marley, Gianna, Troy, Jack, Millie, Gabriella, Mario, Jr., and Ozias.

Visitation will be held from 5:30-7pm, followed by a prayer service at 7pm, Friday, April 11, at Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Saturday, April 12 at 2:00 PM at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Horace, ND. The service will be streamed online through Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home. A reception will follow at CJs Tavern located at 1500 East Rose Creek Pkwy S. in Fargo.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fargo Air Museum.