Veteran Volunteer Paul Hedin Brings Honor and Heart to Hospice

Through CentraCare Hospice's We Honor Veterans program, Paul Hedin helps fellow Veterans and their families find peace, gratitude, and connection at life's end.

At just 22 and newly married, Paul Hedin was drafted during the Vietnam War. He decided to enlist for four years and was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado, one of three Air Training Command centers. Paul's job was to process and equip airmen before they were sent overseas.

"I was one of the lucky ones who didn't have to go to Vietnam," Paul said. "But I've always carried a deep respect for those who did and for those who didn't come home."

A Veteran Who Never Stopped Serving

Though Paul's military service ended in 1972, he carried his spirit of service into civilian life. Following his retirement, he discovered a new calling. Nearly 14 years and more than 575 hours later, Paul is one of CentraCare Hospice's most dedicated volunteers.

His inspiration to volunteer came from a personal place. Years ago, when his mother-in-law became ill and was in a nursing home, he saw firsthand the difference hospice care could make.

"She wanted so badly to go home," he recalled. "CentraCare Hospice, then Rice Hospice, made that possible for her. The team came, brought a bed, and set everything up for her. You can't imagine her smile when that van came to take her home. She had five wonderful days at home. The night she died, my wife and I were there with her. She passed away happy."

That moment changed Paul. "From that day on, I said I am going to get involved with hospice," he said. "Seeing how great hospice was for her, I had to be a part of it."

It also shaped how he views his role today as a hospice volunteer and Veteran.

"People often tell me, I could never do that," Paul shared. "And I understand — you're dealing with death. It's not easy. But somebody has to do it, and that's where volunteers come in. These programs are important, and they're not going away. How can you not do this? These men and women helped protect our country. I get the satisfaction of knowing I'm helping honor that Veteran on their final journey."

A Salute of Gratitude

When CentraCare (Rice) Hospice launched the We Honor Veterans (WHV) Program locally, Paul was one of the first volunteers to get involved. He has since performed over 100 WHV ceremonies for Veterans in hospice care.

The We Honor Veterans program was created to recognize and thank Veterans nearing the end of life. Through personalized ceremonies, CentraCare Hospice volunteers, often Veterans themselves, honor each patient's service with a ceremony that includes the presentation of an American flag pin, a certificate of appreciation, the music of their branch of the military, and, one of Paul's favorite and most meaningful moments, a salute.

"I ask them, may I salute you for your service?" he explains. "And I tell them I'd like a salute back, if they can. Some are weak, some can barely lift their hand, but they always try. Families often cry at that moment. It's a goodbye, a thank you, and it means everything. Something as simple as a salute may seem small, but in that moment, it's something they'll never forget."

"It's not just for the Veteran," he shared. "It's also for their family, including their grandkids. I've had pinnings with as few as four people and others with seventy. Each one is special. I appreciate when children are there to see their grandpa honored. They might not understand his sacrifice, but when they watch us salute him, they see what respect looks like."

Many families tell Paul how much the ceremony meant to them, and he wishes more people knew that it was available.

"A lot of people don't even realize we have the We Honor Veterans program," he said. "They're so appreciative once they see it, but I don't think the word is out here. CentraCare is the only hospice program in this area that offers this, and it's something really special."

Fulfilling Final Wishes

CentraCare Hospice is more than compassionate care; it's about dignity, gratitude, and making every moment count.

In addition to We Honor Veterans, Paul has also helped coordinate hospice's Sentimental Journey program, a partnership with CentraCare EMS that allows patients to fulfill one last meaningful wish.

One journey that stands out to Paul is that of a World War II pilot who wished for one last flight. "A local pilot took him up from the Willmar airport and wouldn't accept any payment," Paul said. "When they landed, his eyes were shining — like he'd just seen the best movie of his life."

For Veteran Lloyd Tollefson, his wish was to visit his wife's gravesite and the Veterans' Memorial in Saint Peter, a monument inscribed with his name and the names of his brothers who all served in the military.

"He had never been able to visit the memorial," Paul said. "It was truly special. He got to see his wife's resting place one more time and see the monument honoring his family's service. That meant the world to him."

Every Sentimental Journey is different, but each one is special. "You can see it in their face," said Paul. "They've completed something important to them, and it brings peace and happiness."

To Make Someone's Life Better

In 2023, Paul was honored as Senior Volunteer of the Year at the Life Connections event in Willmar.

Paul's spirit of service extends beyond hospice. Over the years, he has worn many hats, including volunteer fireman, Sertoma board member, Sibley State Park board member, church volunteer, and mentor to confirmation students. Even now, while caring for his wife, he continues to help with funerals and community events.

And every November 11, without fail, Paul can be found attending local Veterans Day programs.

"I've never missed one," he said. "Veteran's Day brings back a lot of memories, good and bad. It's a day to thank those who have served, to reflect, and to honor our Veterans."

"Paul has made a huge difference in the lives of so many," said Deb Van Buren, CentraCare Hospice Volunteer Services Manager. "He has a way of connecting with people, whether Veterans, families, or staff. His kindness and respect for others are at the heart of what hospice care is all about."

When asked why he continues to serve, his answer is simple and sincere: "To make someone's life better."

It's a motto he's lived by, both in uniform and out.