Paul James Bamberger passed away peacefully at home on April 1, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on November 28, 1941, to Otto and Ada (Friedemann) Bamberger, Paul grew up on the family farm east of Perry, Oklahoma.

A graduate of Perry High School in 1960, Paul earned a bachelor's degree in music education from Oklahoma State University in 1965. That same year, he married Marilyn Grant, and together they welcomed their daughter, Kelly Bamberger, in 1968. Paul dedicated over four decades to Stillwater Milling Company, where he served as Vice President and board member. His contributions extended beyond the workplace, as he actively participated in local and national agricultural associations and shared his expertise as a guest speaker in OSU agricultural classes.

In 1983, Paul married Julie (Lytle) Stark, embracing the role of stepfather to her sons, Michael and Tim. Music remained a defining passion throughout Paul's life. A gifted trumpet and keyboard player, he regularly shared his talent at church and nursing homes, and he proudly participated in the Perry High School and OSU marching bands. Paul was also a member of the legendary Mag 7 rock band, that played at Spav's club in Stillwater in the 1960s. His home music room became a cherished space where he jammed with Kelly and Tim, later entertaining his granddaughters, Leilani and Tiara, as they sang Broadway tunes.

In 2002, Paul and Julie moved to Navarre, Florida, where he joined the "Not Ready for the Rapture Until We've Had More Rehearsal Gospel Band" at Gulf Breeze Presbyterian Church. Living on the bayou brought him great joy, including daily fishing. He also experienced the devastation of a hurricane storm surge in his home.

Diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1992, Paul faced his condition with grace and strength. As his symptoms progressed, Paul and Julie relocated to Maui to be near family. Surrounded by love and care, including support from Island Hospice, Paul remained at home until his passing.

Paul will be remembered as an honorable man who was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Julie; his daughter, Kelly Bamberger, of Nashville; stepsons Michael Stark and wife Sai, Tim Stark and wife Ladawan; grandchildren Leilani Stark Hinojosa and husband Alan, Tiara Stark and fiancé Makana Pierce, great-granddaughter Vaitea Balberdi, grandson Jonathan Paul Stark, all of Maui; Jenjira Jura of Seattle, WA; Brook Jura and her son Addison of Thailand; and many cousins and extended family. Paul was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Louise Maxwell.

Celebrations of Paul's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Island Hospice, 820 Mililani St #400, Honolulu, HI 96813, Attn: Mark Imaizumi.