Paul Bilsky

PAUL BILSKY OBITUARY Paul Bilsky, 70, of Manchester Center, VT passed peacefully December 17. Paul was born in the Bronx and grew up in Teaneck, NJ, the son of Shirley and George Bilsky. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Larry and Steve. After college, Paul formed a partnership called the Banzini Brothers, in Providence, RI, to promote music shows. For five years, he booked world-class acts such as Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, The Ramones, Little Feat and the Newport Jazz fest. Being a Banzini had its advantages, like a hug from Bonnie Raitt and a game of ping-pong with Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead. And there was the time he drove Ella Fitzgerald to the airport and she sang for him in the car. Later, Paul joined the family business, working for 15 years at The Stephen Lawrence Co, the leading manufacturer of luxury gift wrap, located in Carstadt, New Jersey. The company grew through Paul's boundless energy and unparalleled schmoozing, fostering relationships with Bloomingdale's, The Container Store, and Saks Fifth Avenue, among many others. In 1997, Paul moved to Southern Vermont with his wife, Terry, and son, Lee. He pursued a career in real estate sales at Stratton Mountain, where he also achieved his dream of skiing a minimum of 60 days a year. Paul was a lifelong Yankees fan, an excellent chef, wine connoisseur, and lover of New York Times crossword puzzles. He was also an avid golfer and member of the Manchester Country Club since 1989. Paul is survived by his wife, Terry, his son, Lee, daughter-in-law Molly, and grandson Morgan Daniel. He had lived with cancer for several years while continuing to pursue his dreams. He left us on a powder day, and we hope he's skiing powder wherever he is. The burial will be private. A celebration of Paul's life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Northshire Rescue Squad. Guestbook condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net