Paul D. VanNess, age 47, of Sykeston, ND, died Tuesday, June 21, 2011, at Macclenny, Florida, due to injuries from an auto accident.

Paul Donald VanNess was born May 23, 1964 at Glen Ridge, New Jersey, the son of Donald and Carolyn (Pruden) VanNess. He grew up at Caldwell, NJ, where graduated from high school. Paul worked in a fish store, starting while he was in high school. Following graduation, he also began working in a bank.

On December 30, 1989, Paul was united in marriage to Sharon Wagner at West Orange, NJ. In July of 1994, they moved to Sykeston, ND. Paul began working at Dakota Growers Pasta Company in Carrington, ND August 1, 1994, and was currently employed there.

Paul was a former member of St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, Sykeston, and current member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Carrington. He served at Sacred Heart as Sacristan and Eucharistic Minister. Paul was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, was a member of the Carrington Lions Club, and as an Eagle Scout, he continued to be involved in scouting. He had also been involved in the Youth Exchange program.

He is survived by his wife Sharon, Sykeston; one daughter Shannon VanNess, Fargo, ND; two sons, Alexander and Thomas, both of Sykeston; one grandson Mathew VanNess, Fargo, ND; his mother Carolyn VanNess, Macclenny, FL; one sister Susan Ward, Macclenny, FL, and two nephews, Andrew and Sean.

Paul was preceded in death by his father.

FUNERAL SERVICE: Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Carrington, ND

DATE AND TIME: Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 10:30AM

BURIAL: Carrington Cemetery