With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Teddy Okrzesik, Sr., a 2010 Hall of Fame Inductee. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, and all his polka friends and fans. The
Born in Chicago on July 29, 1937, Ted was a devoted husband and father, and the proud and loving Dziadz of 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. He was a dear friend to many. Ted is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Genevieve (née Bocian), and his loving children: Teddy Jr. (Becky), Danny Sr., Teri (John) O’Brien, John (Jennifer), and Cathy (Steve) Zimel.
Ted grew up on the South Side of Chicago and attended St. Pancratius Grammar School and Holy Trinity High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army.
His musical journey began in his youth, playing and singing alongside his brothers Joe and Bob in the Polkaliers Band to the delight of his parents Joseph and Emily (née Scieszka) and many fans – an experience that sparked his lifelong passion for Polka music.
Ted had a storied career in the Polka music field that spanned 75+ years as a musician and promoter, well known for his annual Longest Day of the Year Dances at historic Polonia Grove and Chicago is a Polka Town polka weekends at the world-famous Sabre Room. He held leadership roles with several Polka organizations and achieved the Polka Pioneer award from the International Polka Association in 2010. With wife Gennie, they owned and operated the legendary The Omen Polka Lounge in Brighton Park from 1972 through 1981. They also hosted several radio programs together. He was an accomplished vocalist, drummer, trumpet player and bassist. As the leader of the Windy City Brass and The Next Step Polka bands, he proudly performed with his wife and children at countless venues across the United States. He also recorded numerous record albums that continue to bring joy to many.
Ted had many hobbies over the years and found joy in tackling renovation and improvement projects around the house, learning the latest in music and recording technology, exploring the wonders of science and nature, and spending time with family and friends.
Ted often said, “Life is for the living,” and he lived by those words with passion, curiosity, and kindness, and a generous spirit that touched everyone he met.
A visitation for Ted will be held Sunday, November 2, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ridge Funeral Home, 6620 West Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60638. Chapel prayers Monday 9:00 AM, to St Richard Catholic Church (St Bruno-St Richard Parish), 5032 S Kostner Ave, Chicago, for 10 AM Mass. Interment will take place privately.