Michael Paulucci

MICHAEL JENO PAULUCCI

October 26, 1948 - August 8, 2020.

Mick, our beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away on Saturday, August 8th, 2020 at the age of 71. Born to parents Jeno F. Paulucci and Lois M. Paulucci (Trepanier) on October 26th, 1948, in Duluth, Minnesota.  Mick attended Duluth East High School and Yampa Valley College in Colorado.

Mick was the founder of Grandma’s Restaurant Company, with his first restaurant Grandmas Salon & Deli opening in Canal Park on February 8th, 1976, which altered both the character of Canal Park and the city’s culinary landscape. He further continued his success as a restauranteur by bringing his visions and innovative ideas to fruition with Grandma's Sports Garden, Little Angie’s Cantina, and Bellisio’s Italian Restaurant. Mick and his Grandma’s Restaurant were the original sponsors of the 44-year-old Grandma’s Marathon, which is now run by almost 10,000 runners every year.

Mick enjoyed cooking, telling stories and surrounding himself with friends. He has left a legacy of love, generosity and joy among those who knew him. Mick will be greatly missed by all whose life he touched, but will never be forgotten.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Claire of Las Vegas, NV, his son Jeno Michael, of Las Vegas, NV, his daughter Angela (Mike) Milich  of Maple Grove, MN, and five beloved grandchildren; Mia, Lexi, Angelo, Amina and Nicholas. Mick also leaves behind his sisters Cynthia Selton of Winter Park, FL, and Gina Paulucci of Wayzata, MN, and nieces, Tiffany Geisz and Brittany de Arcos.

Services will be held at a later date, when its safe.  Memorials are preferred and may be directed to Essentia Health-Amberwing, 615 Pecan Ave. Duluth, MN 55811.  Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E 2nd St. Duluth, MN, (218) 727-3555.