Casimir Walter Dzikowski

Jan. 16. 1918 - Nov. 27, 2001

Casimir W. Dzikowski, 83, passed away from cancer on Tuesday, November 27, in his home on Edison Road. He was born on January 16, 1918 in South Bend, to the late Walter and Helen (Lewandowski) Dzikowski. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Winkowski; and by his brothers, Adam and Bert F. Dzikowski.

On August 15, 1943, in St. Mary's National Catholic Church, he married Jeannette Wontorek, his wife of 58 years, who survives. He is also survived by his daughters, Jeannette Nina, Judith Ann (Jim Davis) and Barbara Dzikowski; a brother, Stanley (Alice) Machowiak; and by four nieces.

His passion in life was music. An accomplished violinist at a young age, he and his sister, Mary, and brother, Stan, frequently performed on Froncek's WSBT Polish Hour on the radio. He played first chair in Central High School's orchestra, was the drum major for a marching band organized by St. Mary's Church, and director for the church choir. While still in high school, he organized and directed his own orchestra, known as Kay Rhimes, playing for high school proms and dance halls across South Bend, LaPorte and Michigan City, and among his musicians was Pete Condoli, who later went on to play in Doc Severinson's and Harry James' orchestras.

He was a World War II veteran, serving in the South Pacific, the Philippines and New Guinea, and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

For 23 years, he and his wife hosted the Polish-American Radio Hour on WJVA. In 1982, he retired from Gilbert's men's clothing store after 25 years of service.

Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, November 30, with Rosary at 7 p.m. at Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary's National Catholic Church, Rev. Charles Zawistowski officiating. Burial will be at St. Joseph's Cemetery. 

Source: FindAGrave.com

03/27/2025 EJS

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/53696326/casimir-walter-dzikowski