Paul West, 88

Paul B. West, a retired patent lawyer who was a longtime summer resident of East Hampton Village, died at home in Manhattan on July 20. He was 88 and had been ill with cancer for two years.

Described as a gentle, quiet, and intellectual man, Mr. West had many interests. He was a devoted tennis player and a founding member of the East Hampton Tennis Club. He was also an accomplished and adventurous skier who made annual trips to Vermont, the Alps, and the West to hone his skills.

“He loved nature and relished the challenge of doing most of the work in his garden and house himself,” a prepared obituary said. “He had discriminating taste and curiosity in music and the visual arts and enjoyed attending many local events.” Among them was the Bridgehampton Chamber Music Festival.

Born on June 16, 1928, in New York City, his parents were Sidney West and Ruth West. He grew up in Great Neck and held degrees from M.I.T. and New York University Law School.

He was a partner in the law firm of Ladas & Parry for many years. In his retirement, he began writing poetry, which he studied at the 92nd Street Y.

He is survived by a sister, Margo Otis of Westchester, N.Y., a niece and a nephew, and his companion, Judith Grandes of Manhattan.