Leo Stanek R.I.P.

[Jim Price]

I know polka music doesn't get discussed much here on Rockpage, but one of that musical form's main ambassadors on the local radio airwaves, Leo Stanek, passed away on Friday at age 81.

Besides hosting a weekly local polka radio program in Northern Cambria, Leo was also the drummer for a local polka orchestra, the Vicounts, for nearly 30 years spanning the 1950s through 1981.

Here is the Altoona Mirror story about Leo. It's cool to see that his son, area musician Gerry Stanek, will keep his father's radio show going.

http://www.altoonamirror.com/page/conte ... ml?nav=742

[Marsman365]

Jim,

Thanks for posting this. As you mentioned, Leo was a great ambassador for polka music. I can remember listening to his show on Sunday mornings. I know my dad still listens to Leo's show.

I know a lot of people make fun of polkas, but I've always loved them. I recently found a renewed love for them along with other styles of ethnic music. I think there is a reason polkas are considered "the happiest music on Earth!"

My condolences to Leo's family, friends, and fans everywhere. He will be missed.

[m2helmet]

R.I.P Leo....woke me up on Sunday mornings for years as my parents listened to him.

[CHICKSINGA]

There is nothing more nostalgic to me than Polkas on Sunday morning!!!
Rest well, Stan!

[f.sciarrillo]

Does 102.1 still play polka on Sunday's? I think it was them that did?

[Larry]

Live Polka bands were a staple of the family weddings when I was a kid. RIP Leo.

[Ronnyd]

My Prayers to the Family.

[RamRod 1]

A Legend and a Barnsboro icon!

[Griff]

R.I.P. Leo, Listened to his show many Sunday mornings as a kid.
Gerry, Sorry about the loss of your Dad.