Paula Marie (Ott) Segrest, 67, of rural Hiawatha, died Monday morning, April 13, 2020, at her home.

Paula was born at Hiawatha, August 20, 1952, the only child born to Dr. J.W. and Oneita Ott and had lived in Hiawatha nearly all of her life where she graduated from Hiawatha High School. She also graduated from Highland Junior College with an associate degree in business.

Paula was one of the first EMT’s in Hiawatha, working for Frank Davis for Town & Country Ambulance Service. She also worked for Stuart Lay surveying for a short time. Paula enjoyed working as the records clerk for the Brown County Sheriff Dept. for over 26 years, before retiring, and considered everyone there her extended family.

Paula took up several causes through the years with her being very dedicated to the Brown County Humane Society, and Brown County Genealogical Society. Paula grew up in the Zion Lutheran Church in Hiawatha. One of the things she enjoyed was visiting Mustang Island, Texas in 2008.

She married Ronald Haze Segrest February 2, 1991 in Hiawatha. They lived just outside Hiawatha where they have several dogs/cats and ponies to take care of for the Humane Society, and loved every minute of it. He survives.

Survivors include her daughters: Niki (Jason) Tollefson and Erin (Jesse) Hughes. Also surviving are her 5 grandchildren: Kyle and Kade Tollefson, and Dawson, Taylor and Kaitlyn Hughes, all of Hiawatha.

Private graveside services were held at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha. Pastor Rich Lehmkuhl officiated.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, donate to one of Paula’s passion: the Brown County Humane Society or Brown County Genealogical Society, which may be sent in care of Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.

Due to the critical situation our country is in please remember the family during this difficult time. Consider sending a card, or a note on our web site www.chapelfuneralhome.com.