R.I.P.: Omaha's 'Polka Joe' Passes

Joe Siedlik

Longtime radio polka host Joe Siedlik of Omaha died January 1, 2015 from an agressive forme of cancer, which was diagnosed just weeks ago.

Siedlik was 80-years-of-age according to Omaha.Com.

For more than five decades, Joe Siedlik of Omaha brought what he called “happy music for happy people” to listeners — and dancers — not just in Nebraska but all across the country.

His “Big Joe Polka Show” aired on radio for more than 25 years, becoming a Sunday fixture for many. At one time, he was on 30-some stations from California to New York. He hosted TV shows and polka festivals, promoting the music he loved and polka bands along with it.