Paul Henrik Elmstrand, age 27, was born in Cambridge, MN on December 29, 1996. He was the 5th child of Rodney and Sara Elmstrand. He grew up on the family farm in North Branch, MN and graduated in 2015 from Cambridge-Isanti High School. Paul attended University of Northwestern, St. Paul and graduated in 2018 with a criminal justice degree. He worked at Rod’s Berry Farm, Chisago County Parks Department, the MSP airport, and the Burnsville Police Department. Over the years he was active in 4-H, Joy Lutheran Church, cross-country running, Isanti County Explorers and ROC. Paul enjoyed hunting, showing cattle, The Office, trap shooting, camping, canoeing and being with people. He married his high school sweetheart, Cindy Castruita-Ontiveros in 2018. They were blessed with 2 precious children, María (2) and Mateo (5 months).
Paul first served the community of Burnsville as a Community Service Officer beginning in 2017. He was promoted to an officer in the Burnsville Police Department in 2019. Paul died on Sunday, February 18, 2024 doing the job he loved, serving his community.
Paul loved Jesus, his family, his community, and everyone he met. He served well and honorably.
Paul is survived by Cindy, his loving wife of 5½ years, two children, María and Mateo, his parents Rod and Sara Elmstrand, in-laws Norma and Carlos Castruita, siblings Becky Ruth (Erik) Johnson, Tricia (Pat) Cassidy, Mary Elmstrand, Erik (Carissa) Elmstrand, brothers-in-law, Carlos (Brianna Miller) Castruita, Erik (Gabby) Castruita, 10 nieces and nephews, many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and coworkers.
Paul is preceded in death by his grandparents: Henrik and Viola Elmstrand and Paul and Jill Olson.
