Saratoga Springs, NY - Michael E. Bilinski passed away Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010 at Saratoga Hospital after a brief illness. He was 47. Born on Oct. 28, 1962 in Saratoga Springs, he was the son of the late Joseph and Margaret Cherry Bilinski. He was a lifelong resident of Saratoga Springs and attended St. Clement's and Saratoga High School. He was an avid fisherman. Mike was employed as a prep cook by Gary Stevens of Waterford Banquets and the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club. He was known as "The Hammer" by his colleagues for coming in and getting the job done. Mike was an auxillary member of the VFW Post 420 and volunteered for both the VFW and the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Club. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by two brothers, Joseph and Jan Bilinski. Michael is survived by three brothers, Richard, Frank and Jim Bilinski all of Saratoga Springs and one sister, Karen Toomey of Charlotte, NC. Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 6pm Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010 at the William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway (584-5373). Funeral services will follow at 6pm at the funeral home with the Rev. Neil Draves-Arpaia officiating. Donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.