Son of Inventor and Musician Les Paul Passes on December 31, 2015

Lester “Rusty” G. Paul, son of the innovator and musician Les Paul, has passed away at the age of 74. Rusty was a constant figure by his father’s side during Les Paul’s life and became a popular musician performing at various venues around the country with his band “The Rusty Paul Band.” Often Rusty could be seen sitting in with legendary musical artists including Les Paul’s godson Steve Miller and called many famous musicians his friends including Richie Sambora, Slash, Eddie Van Halen and many others. During his life he worked hard to keep his father’s legacy alive often being interviewed about the late inventor and representing his father’s memory at various events. Paul died after a long battle with diabetes. Rusty had three other siblings, his brothers Gene W. Paul and Robert (Bobby) Paul and sister Colleen Wess.

Rusty Paul grew up surrounded by the emerging technology of sound recording and the famous artists his father Les collaborated with throughout his long career. He himself was an experienced sound engineer often crediting his father for giving him the inspiration to explore music and technology. In tribute to his father Rusty carried on the family musical legacy frequenting the Iridium Jazz Club in New York City, a long time gig played by his father every Monday night for decades. He was also working on a tribute tour for his dad. He spent years hanging out with his famous father and helping him out in their home workshop while Les tinkered about with audio gear and guitars. But along with all the fame Les was still just “dad” to Rusty. The two had an important and special relationship.

Rusty is survived by his children Stephen, Gary and Beth Anne along with his former wife Glori. He had seven grandchildren. Services for Rusty Paul will take place at Van Emburgh-Sneider-Pernice Funeral Home at 109 Darlington Avenue in Ramsey, New Jersey on Wednesday from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Funeral will take place Thursday at 10:00 a.m. Rusty Paul will be laid to rest at Marycrest Cemetery in Mahwah, New Jersey.