“Joe Pat” Paterek
Living Category – Inducted 1978
“Joe Pat” Paterek was born in Chicago to Joseph and
Mary Paterek on May 21, 1919. His father was of Slovak ancestry and his
mother was of Polish origin. Joe became interested in music at an early
age and began taking music lessons while attending local schools. After
developing a serious pursuit of music, Joe formed his first band in
1932. For several years he continued to lead his band and on
Thanksgiving day of 1942, Joe was married to Irene Desecki. A few years
later they became the parents of Joan Marie.
 Three months after marriage, Joe was inducted into
the Army Air Corps and was assigned to a unit entertaining the troops at
USO shows and other military social functions. After being discharged
from the service in 1946 he enrolled in the Midwestern Conservatory of
Music where he later graduated with honors.
In 1946, “Joe Pat” also organized his new ten piece
band and played his first return engagement at the popular Pulaski
ballroom. Through the years he developed a vast acumen for music as it
related to recordings, orchestrations, radio, television and
entertaining live audiences. Joe was active as a professional
musician, bandleader, and entertainer for over 45 years at the time of
his induction in 1978. His versatile
band, which exceled in playing various styles of ethnic and polka music
performed repeatedly on radio and television; and at the popular
dance halls, ballrooms, country clubs, hotels and major social functions
throughout the country. These included providing the musical
entertainment for the Chicago Boat Show at the International
Amphitheatre, the Auto Show at McCormick Place, the Bobby Vinton Show
before 21,000 people at the Chicago Stadium and the countless polka
festivals and dances. In January of 1973, “Joe Pat” Paterek and his
band had the honor of having performed at the Presidential Inaugural
salute to American Heritage in Washington, D.C.
Joe and his musicians toured seven countries in
Europe and performed in Hawaii. He recorded for the Melodia,
Vitatone, Ridgemoor, Polkatunes and Chicago Polka record labels. He and his band recorded a Polka Mass album of special music,
which received considerable national attention and acclaim.
He is now deceased, but fondly remembered by many in the polka field. |
