Today would be my Grandfather's 111th birthday, were he still alive. Mike Pauker, "Grandpa," was an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, an opera-lover, a traveler, a devoted member of the Jewish community, a man who never forgot where he came from and helped those who needed to get back to their own roots. He used his significant self-made wealth to help create permanence in his own life and secure homes for those who couldn't do for themselves. His family, his extended family, his business family and all those who knew him counted on him. He was the antithesis of the "Urban Nomad."
His family came from Bukovina, Romania and when he was as a baby, they arrived in New York on a ship with many other aspirational and fortune seeking travelers. He was the youngest of many brothers and sisters, most of whom I never met. They were all firmly planted on US soil. Their desire was to stay-put.
At seven, Mike ran a pushcart filled with handmade ties around the Lower East Side. At fourteen, he left school, having finished eighth grade, and started a business. His older brothers followed him and together they eventually created one of the largest knitwear companies in the United States. When his family needed help, he was there. When his wife's family needed support, he was there. When Israel called for arms, he was there. When Hitler tortured and killed the Jews of Europe, he was there. He helped relatives and friends of relatives escape to New York and Israel. He made sure that future generations would be safe, secure, healthy and educated by donating his time, wisdom and money to building homes, schools and hospitals.
My permanent tribute to my grandfather is having a son named Michael who shares a joy of life with his great-grandfather. He left us the legacy of getting the best out of life in the time we have. It's ironic. Through permanence, Mike found happiness and security. Yet, for us nomads, constant movement has been the way we've been able to create a secure and fulfilling life. Strange what can happen in two generations.
Happy 111th Birthday, Grandpa.
© Copyright 2001-2010 Q Ventures LLC
Karen, what a wonderful tribute to Grandpa!! i concur, that is how he is remembered. i didn't remember that today would have been his birthday, and 111 at that!
ReplyDeleteGrandma Frieda's is April 1. How old would she have been? Peggy? Harry?
Thanks for the post. Nice blog.
Karen,
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful tribute to your grandfather. Even though I never met him I knew about his goodness and the positive effect he had on many, many people. You have lived a very successful life when people generations later remember the impact you had on others. We should all strive for that in our own lifetimes!
This was beautifully written.
Frieda would be 107 next week!
ReplyDelete