Chester F. Kozlowski Jr.

Born in Dunkirk, NY to Chester and Helen (nee Dragon) Kozlowski on Sept 8, 1942. Chet went to Dunkirk schools and later joined the US Air Force. Chester proudly served in the U.S. military during the Vietnam War, an experience that shaped his character and commitment to serving others. He was stationed at several posts including Keesler, Plattsburgh, and Andersen in Guam. He was a radio tech specialist in the USAF and enjoyed tinkering with electronics. He was extremely proud of his military service and was a member of several veteran organizations.

Following his military service, Chet returned to Dunkirk to raise his family with his former wife Arlon on Armadillo St. A member of St. Hyacinth, he worked for many years at True Temper until its closure in 1986. Concurrently he hosted “The Chet Kozlowski Polka Variety Show” at WDOE on Sunday mornings. An avid polka fan and accordion aficionado, Chet followed in his father’s footsteps and had a polka band, “Chet Kozlowski and The Cavaliers.” He was referred to as “The Polka Prince”, a moniker his granddaughter Jada loved to call him. The band played all over WNY and NWPA and even produced an album. He continued playing music the rest of his life with various other bands. Polka music is what lead him to his greatest adventure when he met his life partner, Barbara Olshanski. They would travel often to watch bands and polka dance.

His career was diverse and marked by his deep involvement in the Dunkirk community. For several years he was part owner of Ceramic World. He also worked as a newscaster for WDOE in the 80s and a stringer for WKBW and WJET from the 90s-00s. You would often see his antennae covered car running off to catch the next story or to record the highlights of a high school football game frequently taking his grandkids, Ryan and Briana, along. Chet also was a First Ward councilman in Dunkirk for several terms in the 90s. In his “spare time” he created the local charity Community Christmas Sharing with Children. For many years he ran the organization, gathering toys and distributing them to area children in need with the help of many volunteers. After leaving Dunkirk, he and Barb lived in Edinboro, PA, where he drove a school bus when they weren’t traveling extensively in their RV. Eventually they decided to split their time between Monaca, PA and Punta Gorda, FL where they made many friends that were just like family.

Chet is survived by Barb; one brother, Raymond (Helen); three daughters: Amy (Mark), Sherri (Alex) and Jennifer; five grandchildren: Ryan, Jared, Jessalyn, Briana and Jada; stepchildren: Karen (Mindy), Michael (Eileen), Tom (Sarah), many cousins, nieces, a nephew and more friends/coworkers/bandmates/buddies than you can imagine.

He was predeceased by his parents and his beloved pup companion, Zadek.

Chester lived a life marked by dedication to his community, his country and his family. His legacy of service, kindness and music will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Chet requested there be no visitation. He will be interred at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies with military honors. A memorial service will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Vietnam Veterans of America.