Obituary of Paul H. Elisha

Paul Elisha, age 92, of Niskayuna NY passed away peacefully on August 16, 2015 after suffering a stroke. Born in Asbury Park, NJ on December 20, 1922; he was the son of the late Allie and Sue Elisha. Paul is survived by Jeanne, his loving wife of 35 years; his children, Adrienne Elisha (Peter Laki) of Rhinebeck, NY and Steven (Larisa) Elisha of Statesboro, GA. He is also survived by his stepdaughter Stephanie (Ronald) Veresko of Ballston Spa, NY and his grandchildren Patrick Elisha and Benjamin and Martin Veresko. Paul is a decorated combat veteran of World War II, serving in the special forces communications unit that landed in the first of eight major amphibious campaigns in the Pacific. Paul was dedicated to social reform through politics and journalism. He lived a life of many passions. As a professional musician, he began his career in music, playing the viola in the New York City Ballet Orchestra. As an accomplished conductor, he was a pupil of the legendary Pierre Monteux and Leon Barzin. Among the many orchestras under his baton, he directed the Starlight Symphony Orchestra (Long Island, NY), New York State Philharmonia, and Collar City Pops (Troy, NY). Paul’s love and vast knowledge of music has been lovingly passed onto to his children and grandchildren. His broadcasts on WAMC been an inspiration for his audiences. Paul served many years in public communications at New York State Department of Mental Hygiene, Division for Youth and the New York State Department of Social Services. He was also the Executive Director of Common Cause, New York State. Among his many accomplishments he has been widely known and celebrated for his weekly political commentaries, as well as his poetry program on WAMC radio. “Swash,” his most recently published collection of poetry includes personal recollections of his experiences serving in the Pacific during WWII as well as poignant reflections of his life. Paul will be remembered fondly as a fervent advocate for those less able to advocate for themselves. Funeral services will be held at Congregation Gates of Heaven, 852 Ashmore Avenue in Schenectady at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18 followed by interment at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. The ritual period of mourning will also be observed at Congregation Gates of Heaven on August 18 at 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to WAMC radio station,