Biography:

Florian W. Chmielewski Sr. (February 10, 1927 – April 23, 2024) was an American musician and politician. He played as an accordion player with the Chmielewski Family Funtime Band, performing polka music throughout the midwest.^[1]

Chmielewski was elected to the Senate in 1970, becoming chair of the employment committee in 1981. During a special session in 1987, Chmielewski was elected to serve as president, due to the absence of State Sen. Jerome M. Hughes, who both preceded and succeeded Chmielewski in the position.^[2] In 1996, Chmielewski became embroiled in the “phonegate” scandal. It was revealed that Chmielewski had given family members state long-distance access codes, allowing them to make phone calls at state expense. Chmielewski was ultimately defeated for re-election in 1996, after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor.^[3]

Chmielewski appeared on the weekly television show, Chmielewski Funtime, for over 35 years. He continued performing with his band up until his death on April 23, 2024, at the age of 97.^[4][5]

Credits: