Paul W. Mlinar, Jr., 80, of Pound Ridge, commercial pilot and lover of adventure

Paul W. Mlinar, Jr., a longtime Pound Ridge resident, died on May 3. He was 80.

He was born on Dec. 27, 1945, in York, Pa., to Paul W. Mlinar and Mildred Mlinar. He attended the University of Massachusetts, where he earned a degree in restaurant and hotel management.

He was a commercial pilot, flying for Seaboard World Airlines, Flying Tigers and Federal Express over a span of more than 44 years. He loved flying, his family said, and had an adventurous spirit. He completed the 10-day, 49-state Iron Butt motorcycle challenge and participated in both the Cannonball Run and the Alcan 5000 automobile rallies.

He also enjoyed nature, fine food and beverages, and music. He was actively involved with the Hickory Hill Figure Skating Club, providing music for ice dance sessions and competitions.

A lifelong athlete, he played defensive end at UMass and earned honors as a high school scholar-athlete. He also was an accomplished wrestler and played semi-professional basketball while living in the Philippines in the mid-70s.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Wendy Weinstock Mlinar; his son, Gavin P. (Amanda) Mlinar, and two  grandchildren.

The family will hold a private celebration of life.