Johnny Vadnal

Johnny Vadnal, 84, died Feb. 25 2008 at Lake West Hospital. He was born March 14, 1923 in Cleveland and was a resident of Mentor for the past 8 years. Survivors are his wife, Alice; children, Gail Ann Herbert, John Tina Vadnal, and Michael Vadnal; grandchildren, Don, Scott and Josh; brother, Richie Elaine Vadnal; sister in law, Mary Vadnal; and many nieces and nephews,among whom is his sometime accordion playing buddy and family musical protege: Butch Fortuna. John was preceeded in death by his parents, Anton and Anna Vadnal; and siblings, Tony, Valerie and Frankie. Johnny Vadnal was an extraordinary musician and composer. His musical career was the center of his life and lasted for over 60 years. At first with his siblings Valerie, Tony, Frank and Ritchie and later with a number of very talented sidemen. He brought music, especially the âCleveland Style Polkaâ into the lives of thousands. He used the Mass-Media: RCA Records, Radio, T.V. from 1949 to 1965, tapes and finally CDâS. Records show that his music was not only heard locally and nationally but also internationally in such unlikely places as Japan, Australia, China, India and even Africa as well as many other countries. As a composer, he left a number of well known and often heard songs â Such as the âSlap-Happy Polkaâ, his theme song âThe Wayside Polkaâ and his last composition the âMy Alice Waltzâ. The quality and excellence of his musical talent was recognized many times over through awards and recognition of his musical achievements. For example, he was inducted into the International Polka Music Hall of Fame, the National âCleveland Styleâ Polka Hall of Fame, and the National Broadcasters Hall of Fame. But the highlights of his music career were experienced in his live performances and direct contact with his âFansâ. A âLove Affairâ with his fans began in 1949 when he was elected by popular vote and given the title of âClevelandâs Polka Kingâ and for him this âLove Affairâ never ended. As with his mother, arthritis forced him to retire. He was too much a musician to accept playing poorly or less than his best. He did have one final hope â to play just once again. This hope was fulfilled in April 2007. Johnny summed things best: âWords cannot express all the wonderful people I have met, the loyalty of my fans and the true enjoyment I have felt by making âHappy Memoriesâ. Johnny is gone but his music is still with us and through it so is Johnny and the memories. Contributions suggested to the Johnny Vadnal Memorial Fund, C/O National City Bank, 7940 Plaza Blvd., Mentor 44060.

Johnny Vadnal

March 14, 1923 - February 25, 2008

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