Local polka performer dies after memorable reunification

VERONA, November 16, 2009 -- A month after retaking the stage with the band he founded and the son he inspired, local polka performer Fred Scherz Sr. died on Saturday.

“I am absolutely crushed by my dad’s passing,” his son Fritz Scherz said. “My dad has been a real role model and I learned so much for him.”

Fred Scherz had been battling liver cancer complications since he was diagnosed in August and had taken the stage while undergoing treatment for the disease. His condition forced him to play only a couple of songs in the band’s sets and he had to sit on the stool while squeezing his accordion.

He told Utica Daily News at the time that taking the stage with his son and band members was as good as any therapy he’d received.

"It just felt good to be back," he said in September. "Just to hear the audience and the reception they gave me was a special moment for me."

Fred Scherz founded the Fritz Polka Band 31 years ago with his then 8-year old son Fritz as a member. From there, the band went on to perform at local venues including Woodstock 99, record 17 songs and win several awards.

A couple of months before his passing he said he was happy about the legacy he would leave and the people that helped him nurse his sickness.

"I have a good family, I'm lucky," he said. "When you've got the friends and family I have, it's hard not to be happy." 

His last performance turned out to be on Oct. 1 when the band did a taping of the “Big Joe Polka Show” in Buffalo, NY. His son said his father “really shined” on that day.

“Aside from missing him because he was my dad, I’ll also miss his great accordion playing and incredible harmonies he’d come up with,” Fritz Scherz said. “No body will ever replace my dad.”

Calling hours will be Tuesday, November 17th from 6pm to 8pm and Wednesday, November 18th from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm at Prince, Boyd, & Hyatt Funeral Home, 210 West Court Street, Rome, NY  Funeral Services will be at St. Peters Lutheran Church, Old Oneida Road, Verona, NY on Thursday, November 19th at 10:30am, with graveside services immediately following.