Paul David Finkel

Paul Finkel, a resident of Sunny Isles Beach, passed away Tuesday, May 18, 2021 at the age of 95. He was born April 15, 1926 in Bronx, New York, the oldest of three children, to Solomon Finkel and Esther (nee Willinger). Paul went on to serve his country well in World War Two and the Korean War. He joined the Navy in 1944 while a senior at Food Trade Vocational High School in New York and, after graduation a few months later, entered boot camp. With an adventurous spirit, he enthusiastically embraced life while traveling the world on board his beloved ships. His favorite city was Hong Kong in the years after World War Two and, later in life, his favorite country to visit was Israel. While in the Navy, he volunteered for a dangerous, top-secret assignment: testing protective gear for possible use against mustard gas attacks.

After leaving the Navy, he attended Monmouth Junior College in New Jersey, studying psychology, then went into the restaurant business in New York and ended his career working for the New York City Transit Authority. Never a fan of cold weather, as soon as he retired, he headed for the warm beaches of Florida. He continued his love of sailing and travel, this time on board cruise ships, as he and his friends danced, dined and explored new foreign destinations.

Paul was a wonderful singer and frequently made up songs for his loved ones. While living in South Florida, he joined The Miamians barbershop chorus and toured the area with them as they entertained audiences. Paul could frequently be found softly singing to himself, music so much a part of his life.

He had many friends and loved to greet each one with a big hug, something he was forced to put on hold during the Covid lockdown. His favorite hobbies were talking, dining out with friends and shopping (a true shopaholic). He loved all animals and supported the wounded pelican rehabilitation programs in South Florida.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Elaine (nee Simon) and his younger brother Dr. Martin Finkel. He leaves behind: his sister Bunny Moses; his nephews Larry Finkel, Dr. Ricky (Lisa) Finkel, Dr. Joel (Julie) Moses; his niece Debbie (Jaime) Moses; and his many friends, including Barbara, his best friend, constant companion and caregiver for 14 years.

Our hearts are broken. We will miss Paul’s sweet, polite ways, his loud laugh, warm smile and twinkling (sometimes mischievous) blue eyes. We were so blessed to have had him in our lives.

Private graveside service and burial at Temple Beth El Memorial Gardens in Davie on Wednesday, May 19.