With great sadness, we inform you of the passing of Richie Gomulka, a 2010 Hall of Fame Inductee. We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, and all his polka friends and fans.
Richie was born on February 6, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Ted and Mary (Owca) Gomulka, first-generation American-born parents. The oldest of four children, Richie shared a lifelong bond with his 2 sisters and younger brother.
Richie leaves behind his beloved wife Suellen, his children the Late Gary (Valerie) Zielinski, Ronald (Julie) Mentzer, Michelle (Bob) Piven, Karen (Ken) Farmer, and Marysue ; Siblings Dianne (Steve) Paliga, the Late Angie Gomulka, Lenny (Estelle) Gomulka.
In 1976, Richie married the love of his life and sweetheart, Suellen. Together they built a beautiful life and marriage spanning over 49 years, filled with faith, laughter, and polka music. Richie and Suellen were blessed with five wonderful children and their family eventually grew to include many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who brought him immense pride and joy.
Richie’s professional life reflected his deep connection to people and his community. For many years, he drove a taxi cab, always with a warm smile and a story to share. But his true passion was Polka music. A talented drummer and singer, Richie began performing in polka bands at the young age of 13 and continued to share his love of polka music throughout his life. His dedication and talent was recognized in 2010 when he was inducted into the International Polka Association Polka Hall of Fame. Richie was also a member of other various polka organizations. He was well known in Chicago as the Polka Icon for his Honky Dyno style of Polka Music.
Richie was also the beloved host of The Richie Gomulka Polka Show on WPNA, The Polka Jammer Lunchtime polka show and Easy Listening Waltz Show, delighting his listeners with his energy, and devotion to preserving the joy of polka music.
Outside of his musical life, Richie had a fondness for antique and classic cars. Above all, he was a man of strong Catholic faith, which guided him throughout his life and provided comfort and strength to those around him.
Richie will be remembered for his kindness, humor, dedication to his family, and the music that filled so many hearts with joy. His legacy lives on in every song, every smile, and every moment of love he shared.