Paul Alfred Hernes, age 85, of Clarksville, died Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Johnson County Health and Rehabilitation Center. He was born March 19, 1941, to Alfred and Gladys Hernes in Clark, South Dakota.

He was the sixth of seven boys. He attended Augustana Academy High School in Canton, South Dakota, graduating in 1959. During his time there, he sang in the Academy Choir and traveled on various choir tours, beginning a lifelong love of music and singing in church choirs.

While in high school, Paul worked alongside his father in carpentry, a skill he would carry with him and use in many ways throughout his life.

He attended the South Dakota School of Mines in Rapid City for one year before enlisting in the United States Navy. He served from 1960 to 1964 aboard the USS Enterprise aircraft carrier, often sharing fond memories of his time in the Navy. Following his service, he returned to the School of Mines, where he earned his bachelor's degree in civil engineering.

Paul met Kathryn Georgine in a young adult church class, and they were married on January 24, 1969. They shared 34 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2003. Together, they were blessed with two children, Anne Marie (born in 1970) and John Paul (born in 1972).

Paul worked for the U.S. Forest Service in Dillon, Montana, and Pueblo, Colorado, before finishing his career and retiring in Russellville, Arkansas. During his years in Russellville, he and his family were active members of First United Methodist Church.

In his 40s, Paul taught himself how to play the piano, adding to his love of music.

He also developed a passion for running and became part of the Russellville runners' group. Over the years, he ran numerous 5K and 10K races, as well as 20 marathons. One of his most notable accomplishments was completing the Pikes Peak Marathon, which includes a 7,800-foot elevation gain. He ran his final marathon at the age of 70.

Paul also took great pride in his yard, maintaining a meticulous lawn wherever he lived.

Those grateful for having shared his life include his daughter, Anne (Lance) Sexton; his son, John (Tonya) Hernes; his grandchildren, Hadlee Kathryn, Brandon (Niki), Brian (Kristi), Brenton (Lucero), and Zeke; and his great-grandchildren, Mason, Madilyn, Jase, and Anderson Paul. He is also survived by his brothers, Joel (Sonja), Selmer (Jan), and Burnette (Cheryl).

Joyfully welcoming him into his heavenly home are his beloved wife, Kathy; his parents, Alfred and Gladys; his brothers, Leslie, Arvin, and David; and his sisters-in-law, Betty, Arla Mae, and Wanda.

The funeral service will be 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the Shinn Chapel with Mr. Burnett Hernes officiating.  Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m., until service time in the chapel and immediately following the service.

Memorials may be made to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37839, Boone, Iowa 50037-0839.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons: Brandon, Brian, Brenton and Zeke.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.shinnfuneral.com.