Anthony Joseph Kaczmarek

Kaczmarek, Anthony (Tony) – age 94, went to be with the Lord, Sunday, May 31, 2015. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. Tony was born January 19, 1921 in Pinconning, Michigan and raised in Bay City the son of Joseph and Magdalina Kaczmarczyk . He moved to Flint in 1940, where he met the Love of his Life Nellie Rostecki. They were married October 9, 1943 at All Saints Catholic Church and enjoyed 70 Beautiful Blessed years of Marriage. Tony started his musical career at the age of 13, he organized his first band at 17. In 1945 he started his famous seven piece orchestra, becoming very popular amongst the Polka crowd, especially with his theme song Autumn Love. He broadcasted live on the radio, he also did many T.V. appearances throughout Michigan. He was inducted to the Michigan Polka Hall of Fame on September 16, 1973. In August of 1981 Tony was presented with special honors at the Polka Fest in Frankenmuth, honored again in August 1999, he received recognition with a “Tony Kaczmarek Day” during Frankenmuth’s Festival period. He enjoyed a career as Parts Manager, starting at Summerfield Chevrolet, then Vic Canaver’s and finally retiring from Al Serra Chevrolet. He served our country during World War II in the U.S. Army. He also belonged to the Knights of Columbus 3rd degree 695 and 4th degree. He was a Past Commander of the Polish Legion of American Veterans Post #8, a member of Dom Polski, member of P.N.A. 1186, member of the Bay City and Flint Federation of Musicians. He was a member of both St. Luke’s and All Saints Catholic Churches and was very active in Church activities. At St. Luke’s Tony started and worked at the Bingo’s and was known as “The King of Bingo’s. He was an usher and loved to sing the choir at both churches. He also enjoyed besides music and dancing, playing baseball and blooper ball, watching any sport on T.V. especially the Detroit Tigers. Taking care of his yard and working in his garden was another joy for him. Tony was a loving husband and father and his family meant the world to him. All who knew and loved him will sadly miss his presence. Left to cherish his memory, his loving wife Nellie, children, Joyce (Mark) Stadie, Kevin (Annette) Kaczmarek, 3 granddaughters, Krysta, Kayla and Kara Kaczmarek, and 1 grandson, Chaz Stadie, several nieces and nephews, including special niece “Daughter” Elizabeth (Betty) (Joseph) Liwak. He will also be missed by his cat Sadie. He was preceded in death by his parents 9 sisters and 1 brother. We would like to thank Heart to Heart Hospice especially Alissa Vincent who helped us take such good care of Dad. Also Pat Kelly, Patty and Dr. Christy for all their love and care. Friends may visit the family from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Reigle Funeral Home. A Rosary will be prayed 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home followed by a Knights of Columbus service. The Funeral Mass will be Celebrated 10 a.m. Thursday, June 4, 2015 at All Saints Catholic Church. Father Robert Kolinski will officiate. Burial will follow at New Calvary Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the families choice. Share your condolences with the family at www.reiglefuneralhome.com.