Polka Legend Florian W. Chmielewski has Died

(KNSI) — A Minnesota man who became an international polka music icon has died.

Florian W. Chmielewski died on April 23rd at his home in Sturgeon Lake, surrounded by his family. He was 97 years old and had recently played accordion at his own birthday party in February.

His obituary said he was born on the family farm in Sturgeon Lake and worked as a dairy farmer. His accordion skills led him to front the Chmielewski Fun Time Band and hosted the Chmielewski Funtime TV program for 35 years.

Throughout his storied career, he has earned numerous awards and accolades. He is a member of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame and the International Polka Association Hall of Fame and has earned nine Grammy awards from the Minnesota Music Academy. He launched the International Polka Festival, which ran for 40 years.

Chmielewski served in the Minnesota State Senate for 26 years starting in 1970 and was defeated in his reelection bid in 1996.

He was preceded in death by all 14 siblings, his wife, Pat and sons Jeff and Mark. He is survived by his son Florian Jr., daughter Patty and their spouses, ten grandkids and 19 great-grandkids.

Visitation for Chmielewski is May 6th in Moose Lake, with his funeral the next day at St. Isadore Catholic Church in Sturgeon Lake.

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