URGENT UPDATE: The world of music mourns the loss of legendary Polka artist John “Stanky” Stankovic, who passed away on December 25, 2023, at the age of 89. His family confirmed the news late Thursday, marking the end of an era for Polka music lovers globally.
Stankovic, renowned as the “Polka King” of Northeast Pennsylvania, entertained millions for decades, captivating audiences with his band, Stanky and the Coal Miners. His performances spanned the globe, including unforgettable shows aboard cruise ships and even a concert for over one million people at Tiananmen Square in China.
In a heartfelt statement on his band’s website, his family expressed, “Every night Stanky ended the performance with the song ‘I don’t want to go home, don’t want to go home,’ but today Stanky was called safely home. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and fans!!!”
Stankovic’s journey began in his childhood, where he was encouraged by his coal miner father to learn the accordion. “If I learned 10 songs, I could make a living,” Stankovic recalled. “I told him, ‘I’ll learn 11 and see the world.’ And I did.” His passion for music took him to stages worldwide, and he shared his story in his autobiography, “Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie: The Story of Stanky and the Coal Miners.”
His daughter, Debbie Stankovic Horoschock, who played trumpet in the band, shared, “He loved entertaining people. He had a great love for life. There is a heritage and a tradition to it. It’s music that lifts you up.” Stankovic was not only a performer but also a cultural ambassador for Polka music, bridging communities through joyous melodies.
Stankovic’s contributions to music were recognized when he was inducted into the International Polka Association’s Hall of Fame in August 2019. His wife, Dottie Stankovic, a prominent figure in Luzerne County as the long-time elected register of wills, was his biggest supporter, often joining him on stage for performances. Together, they hosted the “Pennsylvania Polka” show on WVIA public television, a platform that celebrated Polka dancing and culture.
The band, originally known as the “Tip Toppers,” changed its name to reflect the region’s coal mining heritage, with Stankovic often picking up bandmates directly from the mines for gigs. “We used to pick them up and their faces were black, their clothes were black. They would wash up before performing,” he reminisced in a past interview.
As the music community grieves, Stankovic’s legacy will live on through his timeless songs and the joy he brought to fans around the world. His passing is a poignant reminder of the profound impact he had on the Polka genre and its community.
WHAT’S NEXT: Fans and fellow musicians are encouraged to share their memories and tributes online to celebrate Stankovic’s extraordinary life and career. Memorial services and tributes are expected in the coming days as the community comes together to honor the Polka King.
