Joseph B. Koziol, Jr.

Joseph B. Koziol Jr., 83, passed away June 19th, 2023 after a short illness. Born August 26th, 1939 in Ludlow, MA, he grew up in Indian Orchard, MA and attended Immaculate Conception School and Trade School.

Joe was best known as “Jolly Joe” and was most inspired by music and musical instruments. From a young age he played piano and learned from his uncle Wally Czochara to become a master of the accordion. Joe hosted many polka radio shows here in the Springfield area and in Florida where he was known as the Lake Country Polka King, played in many polka bands, and released an array of pop and polka recordings as well volunteer work in local nursing homes and senior centers. In Joe’s words “music drives me … It’s my life “.

Joe leaves behind his partner of 20 years Teresa Panek, her children and grandchildren; his daughter Debra Kurkul (John) and their five children, and his sister Helen Furgal. Joe was predeceased by his son Joseph B Koziol III.

Funeral Services for Joe will be Monday June 26th with Calling Hours from10:00am to 12:00pm followed by a blessing and eulogy at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave Springfield, MA. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Park Cemetery, 895 Parker St. Springfield, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Polka Jammer Network, c/o Polka Music Preservation Society, 1D Tina Dr., South Deerfield, MA  01373-1032 or online at www.polkajammernetwork.org. To offer online condolences to Joe’s family, please visit www.nowakfuneral.com.

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