BY TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
A musician and educator who inspired and delighted generations in Hays with his folk music died on Wednesday.
Joe F. Dolezal, 80, of Hays, and his polka band were the featured entertainment at the Hays Oktoberfest for 35 years, including several weeks ago at the 2023 event. He also was a music educator for more than 30 years, 28 of those years in Hays.
Born to Elmer and Marcella (Kalivoda) Dolezal, Joe F. Dolezal was born on Sept. 16, 1943, in Belleville.
After three years at Belleville High School, culminating in his graduation in 1961, Joe went to Fort Hays State University. In 1965, he pursued a major in music education, and in 1970, he attained his master's degree in music education.
According to Hays Memorial Chapel, Joe took on the role of Charley Dalrymple in "Brigadoon." It was during this time that Sue Nelson, his future wife, first encountered Joe's remarkable talent and striking appearance. On Nov. 1, 1963, in Hays, they tied the knot, both having successfully completed their degrees in music education.
Joe dedicated two years to teaching in Plainville, followed by three years in Belleville and 28 years in Hays.
In his later years, Joe's focus centered on the Joe Dolezal Polka Band. He held a deep passion for Czechoslovakian folk music and culture, and he was devoted to playing his German-bought button accordion.
Craig Manteuffel, assistant executive director from KSHAA, was a choral music student who was in three Hays High musicals that Dolezal directed between 1978 and 1980.
“Joe was an extremely gifted musician and educator,” Manteuffel said. “His attention to music detail was second to none, and his rehearsals were led by a true professional.”
Manteuffel worked alongside Dolezal for two years in teaching choir classes at Hays High.
“I was truly blessed to have this amazing man in my life as a teacher, mentor and colleague," he said.
Phil Kuhn, president of Hays Oktoberfest, worked with Dolezal for several years while Dolezal led the entertainment committee. Dolezal was responsible for organizing musical performances, including those featuring his own group, The Joe Dolezal Polka Band
“I know that he inspired a lot of people through his music, not only to listen but also to play different instruments too,” Kuhn said.
Nick Werth, former president of The Volga German Centennial Society, emphasized Dolezal's involvement with the organization, where he served as Oktoberfest's primary musical attraction for 35 years.
“Joe's music was probably some of the best polka that I've heard. Over the years, we've lost many good bands, and [they] have all gotten old on us and passed away, moved on. Joe was one of the last greats, and boy, we're surely going to miss him. We're going to miss him greatly,” Werth said.
Both Werth and Kuhn remember Dolezal's comedic and bright attitude.
“His sense of humor was something else,” Kuhn said. “He knew how to command a room, he really did.”
“Joe was probably one of the happiest guys. [He] always liked to joke around whether he was feeling good or not. He always had a joke, always had a smile and no matter where you’re at, Joe always said hi. He knew everybody,” Werth said.
Cheryl Maxwell Glassman, a former student of Dolezals in his choir class in 1970, recalls him as vigorous and full of spirit.
“I remember the first time I saw him in choir because he was extremely dynamic and vibrant. You could not ever think of sleeping or not paying attention when you were in his class because he was so energetic. You could tell his passion for music was just exuding from him,” Glassman said.
Glassman recently portrayed Catherine the Great as Dolezal took the stage at this year's Oktoberfest.
“It was almost like your kindred music spirits, so to speak, because it was so invigorating to hear him play. To just be on the stage with him at Oktoberfest was always really a cool thing,” she said.
Kathy Dreiling, a former Dolezal student, expressed he had a remarkable impact on her life, guiding her to discover herself and setting her on the right path.
“I went on to do music for a living for a long time, played in different groups and bands, and worked as a writer and a stable singer for studios,” Dreiling said. “It all goes back to Joe. He was an incredible influence, not only for me but for a lot of my classmates."
The Oktoberfest Hays Facebook Page paid tribute to Dolezal in a post.
“First the light went out, and now the music has faded. Our Oktoberfest Family has lost another wonderful soul this week. Yesterday, our dear friend, board member, and Oktoberfest polka-meister, Joe Dolezal, passed away.
"While we are all in shock and mourning at the loss of our friend, we ask that you join us in praying for his family and friends during their time of grief. Say hello to Janel for us Joe. ... Nothing will ever be the same..”
Janal A. Moore passed away in April, she was vice president of the Volga German Society and historian for the Oktoberfest Committee. She was honored at Oktoberfest in September.
The funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday at Hays First United Methodist Church with Rev. Craig Hauschild officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Allen Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. today at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 9 a.m. until service time on Saturday at the church. Memorials in Joe’s memory may be made to the Hays High Music Department.