Paul Matthew Begich, a resident of Woodbury, passed away on August 25, 2026. Paul was born in Chicago on August 10, 1953. The Begich Family moved to Hastings in 1956 where Paul was raised. He is a 1971 graduate of Hastings High School. While attending high school Paul’s academic ability was evident in the many times he made the Honor Roll, and being a two year member of the National Honor Society. His extra curricular activities included Class President, Student Council, Spanish Club, Raiders Digest, theatre productions, and Raider Hockey.
At St. Cloud State University he continued his academic success. In 1975 he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration and graduated with Scholastic Honors. Paul’s education and desire for learning continued at William Mitchell College of Law, where he graduated Cum Laude in 1981 with a degree of Juris Doctor. Paul was responsible for assisting in research and writing memoranda for several law firms. As an employee of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources he participated in Boundary Waters Canoe Area legislation. When working for the State of Minnesota under Governor Wendell Anderson he played a major role with the Minnesota Indo-Chinese Refugee Resettlement Office. Programs that were established continue to assist immigrants in Minnesota.
He was employed by Medica Health Plans in the Human Resources Division as Chief Legal Council and retired in 2021 after 24 years of service. Paul’s life was graced with many interests that he readily shared with those close to him. His greatest passion was boating on the St. Croix with music playing(loudly), and he delighted in the company of whoever was enjoying the day with him. He spent many evenings catching fish on Bay Lake. He was an avid reader, he enjoyed movies, attending concerts, and he appreciated the theatre. His top concerts he saw were Prince, Lady Gaga and a family favorite Guster. His favorite theater productions were Reeling, The Legend of Georgia Mcbride, My Fair Lady and Five Fingers of Funk. When it came to sports he cheered on the Vikings and never missed the Minnesota High School Hockey Tournament. Any moment spent with family and friends became a precious memory.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Matt J. and Katherine E. Begich, brother Matthew, and sister Barbara all of Hastings. He is survived by his children Paul and wife Emily and granddaughter Bridgette, (Edina) and daughter Brooke (Mpls). Siblings Katherine (Downey, CA), Robert and wife Kelly, nephews Jacob and Bridger (Soldotna, AK) and Thomas (Virginia, MN). Paul’s life will be celebrated at his home in Woodbury on October 10. In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to the Minneapolis Children’s Theatre Company where they spent many evenings enjoying plays.
Celebration of life at his family home.
