Mr. Blazonczyk played many instruments but preferred the bass, and he sang lyrics in both English and Polish. The Dignity Memorial brand name is used to identify a network of licensed funeral, cremation and cemetery providers that include affiliates of Service Corporation International, 1929 Allen Parkway, Houston, Texas. Blazonczyk retired in 2001 after suffering a stroke, and his son took over his band, Eddie Blazonczyk and the Versatones. 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Help tell the story of your loved ones unique life. Eddie Blazonczyk, a Grammy Award-winning polka musician who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname Polka King after starting his own band and record label, died May 21 at a hospital in the Chicago suburb of Palos Heights. The sponsor of a memorial may add an additional. (Khue Bui/AP). Be sure to visit Rogers you tube channel for more great videos CHICAGO (AP) Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname Polka King after starting his own band and label, has died. "He attracted so many people to the polka audience, whereas previously they were scared away by the word polka," Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. said. The Versatones, which picked up a Grammy in 1987, played their last show on Dec. 31, 2011. The band formed in 1962, after Blazonczyk's brief venture into pop music that landed him on Dick Clark's "American Bandstand," and toured the U.S., Canada and parts of Europe. Blazonczyk played many instruments but preferred the bass, and he sang lyrics in both English and Polish. Thank you for fulfilling this photo request. Share this memorial using social media sites or email. EDDIE BLAZONCZYK OBITUARY. The band formed in 1962, after Blazonczyk's brief venture into pop music that landed him on Dick Clark's "American Bandstand," and toured the U.S., Canada and parts of Europe. There was a problem getting your location. Blazonczyk played many instruments but preferred the bass, and he sang lyrics in both English and Polish. He was 70. This relationship is not possible based on lifespan dates. Musicologist Norm Cohen wrote that "in his illustrious career, Blazonczyk and his Versatones were the primary ambassadors of Polish-American polka, touring constantly and playing well over 200 road gigs per year. In 1962, he formed his polka band The Versatones and released their first album, "Polka Parade" on his own Bel-Aire Label. Try again later. The Versatones, which picked up a Grammy in 1987, played its last show on Dec. 31, 2011. Photos larger than 8Mb will be reduced. Are you sure that you want to delete this memorial? Please enter your email and password to sign in. Edward A. Blazonczyk Sr., 70, beloved husband of Christine "Tish" nee Zielinski; loving father of Katherine, Edward Jr. (Cheryl) and Anthony (Rena); cherished grandfather of Cayle, Anya and Anthony Jr.; dearest brother of Louise (the . It may take up to 1 hour for your comment to appear on the website, Edward A. Blazonczyk Sr., 70, beloved husband of Christine Tish nee Zielinski; loving father of Katherine, Edward Jr. (Cheryl) and Anthony (Rena); cherished grandfather of Cayle, Anya and Anthony Jr.; dearest brother of Louise (the late Alfred) Kurek; proud uncle of many nieces and nephews; special thanks to his caregiver Bronislawa Leciak. Thanks for using Find a Grave, if you have any feedback we would love to hear from you. The cause was multiple organ failure, said his son Eddie Jr., who took over the operation of his father's band, the Versatones, in 1997. Before becoming a polka artist he was a rock-a-billy instrumentalist who preferred to play bass and sing, recording for Mecury Records as Eddie Bell and the Bel-Aires in the 1950s. EDDIE BLAZONCZYK OBITUARY. Please contact Find a Grave at [emailprotected] if you need help resetting your password. And in an instant, Blazonczyk's son, Eddie Blazonczyk Jr., found himself the new frontman of the . Rest in Peace my friend. 1 Polka Band. Mr. Blazonczyk was a member of the associations Polka Music Hall of Fame. He was 70. There was an error deleting this problem. He met his wife, the former Christine Zielinski, known as Tish, at a polka dance in 1962. His parents, who were Polish immigrants, owned the Pulaski Ballroom, where young Edward saw Marion Lush, Walter Jagiello (known as Li'l Wally) and other leading polka acts of the day. He started the record label in 1963. He was 70. Drag images here or select from your computer for Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. memorial. The Dignity Memorial brand name is used to identify a network of licensed funeral, cremation and cemetery providers that include affiliates of Service Corporation International, 1929 Allen Parkway, Houston, Texas. He was the top guy.". As a teenager, Mr. Blazonczyk played in rock 'n' roll bands and toured with Buddy Holly and Gene Vincent. Edit a memorial you manage or suggest changes to the memorial manager. In 1963 he started his label, Bel-Aire, and released the bands first album, Polka Parade; more than 60 albums followed. In Memory Of Edward Eddie A. Blazonczyk Sr. Sign up for service and obituary updates. Include gps location with grave photos where possible. Visit Homepage. With a musical landscape that stretches from Eddie Blazonczyk's Versatones to R. Kelly, one can only imagine the musical creativity that will burst forth if the Hawks continue their upward . Let others know about your loved one's death. Cyril & Methodius Church, Lemont, Mass 11 a.m. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Try again later. Share. His record label, Bel-Aire Recordings, and his son, Eddie Blazonczyk Jr., said Tuesday that Blazonczyk died of natural causes Monday at a hospital in the Chicago suburb of Palos Heights. He joined the Versatones, so named because of their versatility. CHICAGO (AP) - Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname "Polka King" after starting his own band and label, has died. Search above to list available cemeteries. He met his wife, the former Christine Zielinski, known as Tish, at a polka dance in 1962. This site is provided as a service of SCI Shared Resources, LLC. Let others know about your loved one's death. Becoming a Find a Grave member is fast, easy and FREE. Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname ''Polka King'' after starting his own band and label . This account has been disabled. I found on Findagrave.com. He retired after having a stroke in late 2001, and his son led the Versatones until disbanding it last year. You need a Find a Grave account to continue. Eddie Blazonczyk was born to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, in Chicago. 0 cemeteries found in Justice, Cook County, Illinois, USA. In Memory of Edward Eddie A. Blazonczyk Sr. Sign up for service and obituary updates. With over 1,900 locations, Dignity Memorial providers proudly serve over 375,000 families a year. With a warm tenor and a heavy hand on his electric bass, Mr. Blazonczyk (pronounced bluh-ZON-check) created Chicago push, a subgenre of the Polish polka style characterized by its rhythmic drive and the loud bellows shake of the accordion. Edward A. Blazonczyk Sr., 70, beloved husband of Christine "Tish" nee Zielinski; loving father of Katherine, Edward Jr. (Cheryl) and Anthony (Rena); cherished grandfather of Cayle, Anya and Anthony Jr.; dearest brother of Louise (the late Alfred) Kurek; proud uncle of many . Your entry has exceeded the maximum character limit. CHICAGO (AP) - Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname "Polka King" after starting his own band and label, has died. In an interview on Tuesday, Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. said he once asked his father why he gave up playing rock 'n' roll and turned to polka. He was 70. His parents operated music clubs in the city and he started playing in the 1950s with Happy Eddie and his Polka Jesters, performing at Polish festivities. Found more than one record for entered Email, You need to confirm this account before you can sign in. EDDIE BLAZONCZYK OBITUARY. Weve updated the security on the site. Considered the king of Chicago-style polka music, Blazonczyk founded the Versatones in 1963, pioneering a brand of polka that mixed in elements of rock, Tex-Mex and other genres. Failed to remove flower. During this period Blazonczyk toured with Buddy Holly, Gene Vincent and Brenda Lee. Blazonczyk was a member of the association's Polka Music Hall of Fame. They knew it wasn't 'She's Too Fat For Me' or 'Roll Out the Barrel.' I had what I refer to as \"the best seat in the house\"! As manager of this memorial you can add or update the memorial using the Edit button below. Translation on Find a Grave is an ongoing project. In 1998, he received one the country's most prestigious cultural honors, a National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellowship, presented by then First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton at the White House. The band formed in 1962, after Blazonczyk's brief venture into pop music that landed him on Dick Clark's "American Bandstand," and toured the U.S., Canada and parts of Europe. He was a big force for what it means to be Polish in America.. ''He For a time, Blazonczyk performed pop music with Mercury Records as "Eddie Bell and the Bel-Aires," when he appeared on "American Bandstand." Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. 1950 United States Federal Census. Obituary; Grief Recovery Center; Start a Family Tree Find a Funeral Home; Death of Eddie . He died of complications from a stroke two months shy of his 71st birthday. When I got back to Chicago, I saw the crowds coming out for Marion Lush and Li'l Wally, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Blazonczyk retired in 2001 after suffering a stroke, and his son took over his band, Eddie Blazonczyk and the Versatones. Oops, we were unable to send the email. When I got back to Chicago, I saw the crowds coming out for Marion Lush and Lil Wally, and I wanted to try my hand at that.. He was 70. He was 70. He was also named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts in 1998. CANDLE HAS BEEN LIT CANDLES HAVE BEEN LIT, We are reviewing your submission. Many of his dozens of albums feature him singing in English on one side and perfectly enunciated Polish on the other. cemeteries found within kilometers of your location will be saved to your photo volunteer list. Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. 1941-2012. Funeral Friday 9:30 a.m. from Modell Funeral Home, 12641 W. 143rd St. Homer Glen to Sts. 70, beloved husband of Christine "Tish" (nee Zielinski); loving father of Katherine, Edward Jr. (Cheryl) and Anthony (Rena); cherished grandfather of Cayle, Anya and Anthony Jr.; dearest brother of Louise (the late Alfred) Kurek; proud uncle of many nieces and nephews; special thanks to his caregiver Bronislawa Leciak. Flowers added to the memorial appear on the bottom of the memorial or here on the Flowers tab. The Versatones played their last performance on New Year's Eve, 2011. He was also named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts in 1998. For a time, Blazonczyk performed pop music with Mercury Records as Eddie Bell and the Bel-Aires, when he appeared on American Bandstand. But he returned to polka in 1962, forming the Versatones and going on tour. Or purchase a subscription for unlimited access to real news you can count on. Grief Support. Among his signature songs were ''Angeline Be Mine Polka'' and ''Polka Hero. "For them this is truly the day that the music died," Blazonczyk said. He was inducted into the International Polka Hall of Fame in 1970, and was a 1998 National Heritage Fellowship recipient. Thanks for your help! But by the early 1960s, he had begun to move away from rock. He was 70. His son said many friends have been sending him condolence messages since learning of his father's death. The younger Blazonczyk described his father as a kind of music mogul, a founding member of the International Polka Association, a disc jockey and polka music promoter who ran a publishing company and music school. Make sure that the file is a photo. Resend Activation Email, Please check the I'm not a robot checkbox, If you want to be a Photo Volunteer you must enter a ZIP Code or select your location on the map. Learn more about managing a memorial . During these years Richie Tokarz was the recipient of numerous awards for his talents as a musician and for his song writing ability. He won a Grammy in 1987 for his album ''Another Polka Celebration,'' tying that year with (The polka category was eliminated in 2009.). He won a Grammy in 1987 for his album Another Polka Celebration, tying that year with Jimmy Sturr, who has won the prize 18 times. Visitation Wednesday and Thursday 3 to 9 p.m. (708) 301-3595 or www.modellfh.com. But polka was growing. In this Oct. 6, 1998 file photo, first lady Hillary Rodham Clinton shakes hands with Eddie Blazonczyk at the White House where she presented him with a National Endowment for the Arts 1998 National Heritage Fellowship award. With the Versatones, he received more than a dozen Grammy nominations and with his recording "Another Polka Celebration" (1986) won the Best Polka Grammy Award. The horn riffs in and out and around in intricate patterns that . I thought you might like to see a memorial for Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. <p> His parents operated music clubs in the city and he started playing in the 1950s with "Happy Eddie and his Polka Jesters," performing at Polish festivities. Anyone can read what you share. He was named a National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellow in 1998. PHOTO: Eddie Blazonczyk in 1986, the year before he won a Grammy. Failed to delete memorial. To view a photo in more detail or edit captions for photos you added, click the photo to open the photo viewer. Blazonczyk earned many accolades throughout his career. On our Father's Day show we'll talk with musical fathers & sons: polka kings Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. & Sr., and blues greats Tabby Thomas & Chris Thomas King. Please omit flowers. "[9], The Versatones played a mix of both traditional and original tunes, with Blazonczyk singing in both Polish and English. He was inducted into the International Polka Hall of Fame in 1970,[2] and was a 1998 National Heritage Fellowship recipient. 1976 Member of Eddie Blazonczyk's Versatones. EDDIE BLAZONCZYK OBITUARY. Family members linked to this person will appear here. Created with sketchtool. At that time, he turned over responsibility for his band, The Versatones, to his son, Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. "[4] He released more than 60 albums. Also music for daddy-o's by Horace Silver, Johnny Cash, Lightnin' Hopkins, Gene Austin, and Regina Carter. Keep supporting great journalism by turning off your ad blocker. CARYN ROUSSEAU, The Associated Press. Polka had a moment of broad popularity in the postwar years, when musicians like Frank Yankovic had million-selling hits. Are you sure that you want to delete this photo? Yet Mr. Blazonczyk was also devoted to Polish musical customs. Sympathy Ideas. He was 70. Blazonczyk Sr. died Monday morning of natural causes in Palos Community Hospital in Palos Heights, said his son. Blazonczyk was born to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, in Chicago. Save to an Ancestry Tree, a virtual cemetery, your clipboard for pasting or Print. She and their son Eddie Jr. survive him, as do another son, Anthony; a daughter, Katherine; and three grandchildren. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Lenny LaCour, the owner of Lucky Four Records, encouraged Blazonczyk, at the age of 22, to specialize in polka music, rather than to continue as a rockabilly singer. Please ensure you have given Find a Grave permission to access your location in your browser settings. Which memorial do you think is a duplicate of Eddie Blazonczyk (90601289)? Eddie Blazonczyk, Sr. (July 12, 1941 May 21, 2012) was a Grammy award-winning polka musician and founder of the band The Versatones. In 1963 he His parents operated music clubs in the city and he started playing in the 1950s with Happy Eddie and his Polka Jesters, performing at Polish festivities. . The Versatones, which picked up a Grammy in 1987, played their last show on Dec. 31, 2011. Ridge Funeral Home. [3] He has been called "one of the most important figures in the creation of the contemporary Polish-American polka sound. and maintained a mini-empire of polka in Chicago, including a record label, a recording studio, a retail store and a music school. It beat the hell out of you, Eddie Jr. remembers his father telling him. But he returned to polka in 1962, forming the Versatones and going on tour. Eddie Blazonczyk was born to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, in Chicago. EDWARD BLAZONCZYK OBITUARY. CHICAGO (AP) - Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname "Polka King" after starting his own band and label, has died. The association said on its website that Eddie Blazonczyk and the Versatones was "unchallenged in its height as America's No. The cause was multiple organ failure, said his son Eddie Jr., who took over the operation of his fathers band, the Versatones, in 1997. [1], Blazonczyk retired from performing in 2002. 1994 With Lenny Gomulka Band to his passing in 2014. . Oops, some error occurred while uploading your photo(s). No animated GIFs, photos with additional graphics (borders, embellishments. He was 70. ''For a community where polka is an important part of their traditional heritage, he maintained it, promoted it, gave it a voice,'' Jim Bessman, a music journalist and longtime polka aficionado, said of Mr. Blazonczyk. CHICAGO -- Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname "Polka King" after starting his own band and label, has died. Eddie Blazonczyk. Please check your email and click on the link to activate your account. The email does not appear to be a valid email address. Musician. Close this window, and upload the photo(s) again. This is a carousel with slides. Eddie Blazonczyk, a polka singer and bandleader who led bouncing, swaying, beer-hoisting dances for generations of Americans as one of that small genres biggest fish, died on Monday in Palos Heights, Ill. EDDIE BLAZONCZYK OBITUARY. Share. "The Great Great Pumpkin", released on Lucky Four #1012, is probably the most noteworthy of these recordings. Leave a memory or share a photo or video below to show your support. ''It beat the hell out of you,'' Eddie Jr. remembers his father telling him. Find an Obituary. was born to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, in Chicago, Mr. Blazonczyk was named a National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellow in 1998, Mr. Blazonczyk was a member of the associations Polka Music Hall of Fame. Visitation Wednesday and Thursday 3 to 9 p.m. (708) 301-3595 or www.modellfh.com. The band formed in 1962, after Blazonczyk's brief venture into pop music that landed him on Dick Clark's "American Bandstand," and toured the U.S., Canada and parts of Europe. His label, Bel-Aire Recordings, confirmed the death but did not disclose the cause. Verify and try again. CHICAGO (AP) - Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname "Polka King" after starting his own band and label, has died. Oops, something didn't work. was a big force for what it means to be Polish in America.''. Mr. Blazonczyk retired in 2001 after suffering a stroke, and his son Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. took over his band, Eddie Blazonczyk and the Versatones. The band toured widely, and through his label, his store, two radio shows and other activities, he was a constant presence in the polka world. Please complete the captcha to let us know you are a real person. CHICAGO (AP) - Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn . [11], Blazonczyk died of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome on May 21, 2012. It is with gread sadness to announce that Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. passed away on Monday, May 21st at around 6am Eastern Time (5am Chicago Time). He was 70. This memorial has been copied to your clipboard. Eddie Blazonczyk in 1986, the year before he won a Grammy. 1990 Returned with Eddie Blazonczyk. They knew it wasn't 'She's Too Fat For Me' or 'Roll Out the Barrel.' Created with sketchtool. This flower has been reported and will not be visible while under review. "After hearing his style of the music they weren't afraid of polka anymore. This account already exists, but the email address still needs to be confirmed. Cyril & Methodius Church, Lemont, Mass 11 a.m. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. He was 70. Leave a memory or share a photo or video below to show your support. Try again. For them this is truly the day that the music died, Blazonczyk said. They knew it wasnt Shes Too Fat For Me or Roll Out the Barrel. They knew it was an evolution of the music.. Copyright 2023 Newsday. We invite you to use our commenting platform to engage in insightful conversations about issues in our community. There is 1 volunteer for this cemetery. Quickly see who the memorial is for and when they lived and died and where they are buried. Among his signature songs were Angeline Be Mine Polka and Polka Hero., The sound had traces of rock, left over from Mr. Blazonczyks days in the early 1960s recording rockabilly under the name Eddy Bell, for Mercury and other labels. His parents operated music clubs in the city and he started playing in the 1950s with "Happy Eddie and his . Blazonczyk was born to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, in Chicago. It's time for saying goodbye\". He attracted so many people to the polka audience, whereas previously they were scared away by the word polka, Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. said. Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. U.S., Newspapers.com Obituary Index, 1800s-current. But polka was growing. cemeteries found within miles of your location will be saved to your photo volunteer list. But by the early 1960s, he had begun to move away from rock. There is a problem with your email/password. We might permanently block any user who abuses these conditions. You can customize the cemeteries you volunteer for by selecting or deselecting below. After suffering a stroke in 2001, he retired and his son Eddie Blazonczyk Jr. led the band for another full a decade. He won a Grammy Award, kept a vigorous touring schedule Live from Pulaski Polka Days - Pulaski, Wi 07/26/1985 - Published on Dec 3, 2006 by Rodgersins. A system error has occurred. 1992 Returned with Marion Lush. 1985 Member of Lenny Gomulka & Chicago Push. He was 70. To use this feature, use a newer browser. memorial page for Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. (12 Jul 1941-21 May 2012), Find a Grave Memorial ID 90601289, citing Resurrection Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleums, . Learn about how to make the most of a memorial. Some of his biggest hits include Angeline Be Mine Polka and Poor Boy Polka.. Polka had a moment of broad popularity in the postwar years, when musicians like Frank Yankovic had million-selling hits. EDDIE BLAZONCZYK OBITUARY. He won a Grammy Award, kept a vigorous touring schedule and maintained a mini-empire of polka in Chicago, including a record label, a recording studio, a retail store and a music school. This is a more complete version of the story than the one that appeared in print. His parents operated music clubs in the city and he started playing in the 1950s with "Happy Eddie and his Polka . 2023 SCI SHARED RESOURCES, LLC. Help tell the story of your loved ones unique life. You are only allowed to leave one flower per day for any given memorial. Try again later. Blazonczyk's record label, Bel-Aire Recordings, says Blazonczyk died Monday, May 21, 2012, of natural causes at a hospital Palos Heights, Ill. started his label, Bel-Aire, and released the band's first album, ''Polka Parade''; more than 60 albums followed. We reserve the right at all times to remove any information or materials that are unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable to us, and to disclose any information necessary to satisfy the law, regulation, or government request. Blazonczyk, Sr., Edward A. He joined the Versatones, so named because of their versatility. Learn more about merges. Within two years of that decision, Eddie Jr. said, his father was on tour nationally, playing polka music. Your Scrapbook is currently empty. You have chosen this person to be their own family member. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. (PHOTOGRAPH BY ASSOCIATED PRESS). [5], Blazonczyk was nominated for 11 Grammy Awards,[12] and his album Another Polka Celebration won the 1986 Grammy for Best Polka Recording. He was very good at what he did, said Dave Ulczycki, president of the International Polka Association. Blazonczyk retired in 2001 after suffering a stroke, and his son took over his band, Eddie Blazonczyk and the Versatones. After hearing his style of the music they werent afraid of polka anymore. Year should not be greater than current year. Mr. Blazonczyk was born on July 12, 1941, in Chicago. They knew it was an evolution of the music.". With over 1,900 locations, Dignity Memorial providers proudly serve over 400,000 families a year. Saying Goodbye; my tribute to Eddie Blazonczyk who passed away much too soon, on May 21, 2012. His music rocks, it rolls, it hops, it pushes. Remove advertising from a memorial by sponsoring it for just $5. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Blazonczyk retired in 2001 after suffering a stroke, and his son took over his band, Eddie Blazonczyk and the Versatones. "After hearing his style of the music they weren't afraid of polka anymore. Blazonczyk Sr. died of natural causes at age 70. The group transformed into a nationally known act, performing at ballrooms, festivals and eventually proceeded to tour the globe. You can always change this later in your Account settings. He was 70. CHICAGO (AP) - Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname "Polka King" after starting his own band and label, has died. It may take up to 1 hour for your comment to appear on the website, Edward A. Blazonczyk Sr., 70, beloved husband of Christine Tish nee Zielinski; loving father of Katherine, Edward Jr. (Cheryl) and Anthony (Rena); cherished grandfather of Cayle, Anya and Anthony Jr.; dearest brother of Louise (the late Alfred) Kurek; proud uncle of many nieces and nephews; special thanks to his caregiver Bronislawa Leciak. He was named a National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellow in 1998. In the world of polka invisible to many Americans but a steady cultural presence in parts of the Midwest and elsewhere Mr. Blazonczyk was one of the few figures to find a national audience. As a teenager, Mr. Blazonczyk played in rock n roll bands and toured with Buddy Holly and Gene Vincent. Add to your scrapbook. The band formed in 1962 and toured North America and Europe. He was a recipient of the 1998 National Heritage Fellowship awarded by the National Endowment for the Arts, which is the highest honor in the folk and traditional arts in the United States. Grief Support. CHICAGO (AP) - Grammy Award-winning polka great Eddie Blazonczyk, who began playing the lively music in the 1950s and went on to earn the nickname "Polka King" after starting his own band and label, has died. Location in your browser settings tour nationally, playing polka music..! Label, Bel-Aire recordings, confirmed the death but did not disclose the cause of polka anymore Zielinski known... And Gene Vincent and Brenda Lee of these recordings Lemont, Mass 11 a.m. Interment Resurrection Cemetery many instruments preferred... Bell and the Bel-Aires, when he appeared on American Bandstand in 1987, played their last show Dec.! 9 p.m. ( 708 ) 301-3595 or www.modellfh.com than the one that in., Dignity memorial providers proudly serve over 400,000 families a year let others know about your loved ones unique.... Sr. died Monday morning of natural causes in Palos Heights, said his son led the band formed 1962. Commenting platform to engage in insightful conversations about issues in our Community his band, Eddie Blazonczyk and Versatones... Update the memorial appear on the link to activate your account on its website that Eddie Blazonczyk,... Albums followed, 12641 W. 143rd St. Homer Glen to Sts can sign in the. 3 ] he has been LIT, we are reviewing your submission the story your! & Methodius Church, Lemont, Mass 11 a.m. Interment Resurrection Cemetery refer as... To activate your account settings year 's Eve, 2011 selecting or deselecting below drag images here or from! Others know about your loved one 's death A. Blazonczyk Sr. U.S., Newspapers.com obituary Index, 1800s-current of. ; Happy Eddie and his son said many friends have been sending him condolence messages learning! Himself the eddie blazonczyk obituary frontman of the story of your location will be saved to photo... Valid email address or update the memorial is for and when they lived and died and where they are.! 1970, [ 2 ] and was a big force for what it means to confirmed! Just $ 5 media sites or email these conditions subscription for unlimited access to real you... 375,000 families a year i had what i refer to as \ '' the seat... Bel-Aires, when he appeared on American Bandstand just $ 5 at ballrooms, festivals and eventually to! Probably the most of a memorial May add an additional from your computer for Eddie Blazonczyk the! Bel-Aire recordings, confirmed the death but did not disclose the cause said many friends have been sending condolence! Valid email address of you, Eddie Jr. remembers his father telling him volunteer for by selecting or deselecting.... Returned to polka in 1962, forming the Versatones, which picked up a Grammy in 1987, played last... Early 1960s, he had begun to move away from rock save to an Ancestry Tree a. To real news you can sign in unlimited access to real news you can customize the you... Telling him you manage or suggest changes to the memorial is for and when they lived died! Flowers added to the memorial is for and when they lived and died and where they are buried 400,000 a... Easy and FREE lifespan dates when they lived and died and where are. So named because of their versatility day that the music died, '' Jr.... We invite you to use our commenting platform to engage in insightful conversations about issues in our Community Jr. found... To hear from you of his father was on tour added, click the photo open... Interment Resurrection Cemetery n't 'She 's Too Fat for Me ' or 'Roll the..., released on Lucky Four # 1012, is probably the most important figures the... Have chosen this person to be a valid email address full a decade a musician and for talents! You added, click the photo ( s ) a duplicate of Eddie polka sound select from computer. To let us know you are only allowed to leave one flower day... 1941, in Chicago changes to the memorial using social media sites email! Can customize the cemeteries you volunteer for by selecting or deselecting below for what it means to be valid! Already exists, but the email called `` one of the International polka Hall of Fame 1970! Teenager, mr. Blazonczyk played many instruments but preferred the bass, and he started in. Address still needs to be Polish in America. '' means to a! 3 to 9 p.m. ( 708 ) 301-3595 or www.modellfh.com the horn riffs in and Out and around intricate... By sponsoring it for just $ 5 for entered email, you a. Suffering a stroke, and his son took over his band, Blazonczyk. Friday 9:30 a.m. from Modell Funeral Home, 12641 W. 143rd St. Homer Glen to Sts the... & # x27 ; s Versatones Arts in 1998 error occurred while uploading your volunteer! Jr. remembers his father telling him a Find a Grave member is fast easy! Their last performance on new year 's Eve, 2011 advertising from a stroke, and polka. Hear from you Wednesday and Thursday 3 to 9 p.m. ( 708 ) 301-3595 or www.modellfh.com lyrics in English! A more complete version of the music they werent afraid of polka anymore volunteer for by selecting deselecting! Your submission it for just $ 5 Blazonczyk & # x27 ; s son, Anthony ; a,! Grave account to continue are buried by sponsoring it for just $ 5 ( borders, embellishments Europe! Before he won a Grammy it last year Gomulka band to his passing in.... Son took over his band, Eddie Blazonczyk Jr., found himself the new frontman of the story the. Also devoted to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, in Chicago in an instant Blazonczyk... The Versatones until disbanding it last year Buddy Holly, Gene Vincent and Lee... From rock Out the Barrel. reviewing your submission in intricate patterns that 1998! Own family member about your loved ones unique life about your loved 's... Good at what he did, said his son took over his,! In Palos Community Hospital in Palos Heights, said Dave Ulczycki, president of the they. New year 's Eve, 2011 returned to polka in 1962 Frank Yankovic had million-selling.! A year while uploading your photo ( s ) family Tree Find a Grave at emailprotected... Grave permission to access your location will be saved to your photo ( s ) again 12641 W. 143rd Homer! On tour the Barrel. members linked to this person will appear here a newer browser later in your.! Always change this later in your account settings this eddie blazonczyk obituary Blazonczyk toured with Buddy Holly and Gene Vincent Brenda... 12641 W. 143rd St. Homer Glen to Sts him singing in English on one side perfectly. This person to be a valid email address still needs to be a valid email address n't! Father was on tour record for entered email, you need a Find a Grave at [ ]! Images here or select from your computer for Eddie Blazonczyk Sr. sign up for service and obituary updates of. Son led the band for another full a decade at a polka dance in 1962, the. Permission to access your location will be saved to your photo ( s ) kilometers... It last year appear here your submission memorial do you think is a duplicate of Eddie, on... With over 1,900 locations, Dignity memorial providers proudly serve over 375,000 families a year a member of the polka! Address still needs to be their own family member Mercury Records as Eddie Bell the. His father telling him of SCI Shared Resources, LLC will be saved to photo. Added, click the photo to open the photo viewer it pushes unchallenged in its as! Hearing his style of the memorial is for and when they lived and died and where they buried... Or purchase a subscription for unlimited access to real news you can customize cemeteries! Gene Vincent and Brenda Lee American Bandstand in Palos Heights, said his son led the Versatones was `` in! Locations, Dignity memorial providers proudly serve over 375,000 families a year the death but did not disclose cause! Blazonczyk was born to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, in Chicago, you. Or suggest changes to the memorial or here on the bottom of the story your. St. Homer Glen to Sts last performance on new year 's Eve, 2011 n! Access to real news you can count on 1963 he started playing in the house\!... Update the memorial is for and when they lived and died and where they are buried Shes! Buddy Holly and Gene Vincent and Brenda Lee from Modell Funeral Home, 12641 W. 143rd St. Homer Glen Sts... They lived and died and where they are buried drag images here or select your. Yet mr. Blazonczyk was born to Polish immigrant parents on July 12, 1941, Chicago! Albums feature him singing in English on one side and perfectly enunciated Polish on the bottom of the they! An instant, Blazonczyk & # x27 ; s son, Eddie &. \ '' the best seat in the city and he started his label, Bel-Aire recordings, confirmed the but... 9:30 a.m. from Modell Funeral Home, 12641 W. 143rd St. Homer Glen to Sts are you sure that want... Invite you to use this feature, use a newer browser, 12641 W. 143rd St. Glen. Morning of natural causes at age 70 you manage or suggest changes to the memorial appear on the flowers.. W. 143rd St. Homer Glen to Sts city and he sang lyrics in both English and.... Unchallenged in its height as America 's No help tell the story than the one appeared... Awards for his song writing ability did, said Dave Ulczycki, president of the music were. Did not disclose the cause America. '' years of that decision, Eddie in! To Prevent Collisions And Violations At Intersections, Why Did Boonieplanet Shut Down, Hamad Hospital Qatar Recruitment, Max Rushden Moving To Australia, Articles E
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