Chester L Kovalski

Chester “Chet” Kovalski, age 89, passed away July 8, 2021.  He was born June 6, 1932 In Stevens Point, WI.  He and his wife moved to Appleton in 1954 and shortly after moved to Menasha for the balance of their lives.

Chet was an Army Veteran and had an entertainment role.  Over the years he worked for several companies in the Fox Valley and retired as a truck driver for Mills Fleet Farm in Appleton.

Chet enjoyed providing a special entertainment spark by providing live musical entertainment, for 50 years of his life performing at public weddings, anniversaries and various public venues primarily in northeast Wisconsin.  He went by the name of “Chet and his Concertina”.  Together with his sons Rick and John they provided entertainment for literally thousands of public events over the years and was especially well known in the Fox Valley for this reason. His musical style consisted of a variety of music including Polka, Waltz and “popular” dance tunes of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.  He devoted much time to practice and performing and the audience danced and had a memorable evening.  He was a master at providing fun and enjoyment through his music for his extended family and the general public.

Other accomplished interests included billiards and ping pong. Friends and family always looked forward to enjoying games with Chet despite them losing to him.  He also loved going out on his boat “The EIO” as an avid fisherman

Although he had two careers going for many years, his wife, children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters were most important to him.  After retiring, he and his wife Bernie traveled extensively finding good dancing and Polish music.

Packer football and Brewers baseball was also high on his list of interests.  Of course, the concertina went to more than a few tailgate outings at the stadiums.

Chet is survived by his daughter Carrie (Todd) Lamensky and sons John (Toni) Kovalski and Rick (Jessica) Kovalski and four grandchildren: Tyler (Courtney) Lamensky, Miles Lamensky, Matt (Marie) Kovalski and Erin Kovalski. Brother Irv (Lola) Kovalski and sister Loraine (Rhody) Bushman.

Chet is preceded in death by his wife Bernie, parents John and Sally Mae and brother Clarence (Agnes) Kovalski.

Family and friends may gather beginning at 9:30am, Monday, August 9, 2021 at Greenlawn Memorial Park Chapel, 1451 Green Valley Road in Neenah, Wisconsin.  A memorial service will follow at 11:30am, with military honors and inurnment after the service.

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