Richard Stanley Midura was born on August 12, 1935, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, to the late Stanley and Nellie (Kowal) Midura. He grew up in Chicopee, attended Chicopee High School, and remained deeply connected to the Western Massachusetts community throughout his life. Richard peacefully passed away on August 13, 2026, at the age of 91.

Richard proudly served in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957. During his military service, he continued his passion for music as a member of the 8th Army Band.

Richard began his music career at just 15 years old and went on to become a highly respected clarinet and saxophone player in the polka community. Known by his peers as “the pioneer of polka clarinet improvisation,” Richard was known for his expressive clarinet and saxophone playing and performed with many of the leading Eastern-style polka bands of his time. His unique playing style influenced generations of polka clarinetists.

Throughout his career, Richard toured with Ed Swierand’s Aristocrats, Al Soyka, and Gene Wisniewski, and performed and recorded with Eddie Siwicki, Al Cocoa, Walt Solek, Ray Henry, and the Connecticut Twins. On June 7, 1956, Richard appeared on national television, performing the “Clarinet Polka” on The Ed Sullivan Show. Later in life, he continued his dedication to polka music by hosting radio shows on WMUA in Massachusetts, where he helped raise money to support polka broadcasting. In recognition of his lifelong contributions to polka music, Richard was inducted into the Polka Hall of Fame in 2016.

Outside of music, Richard worked for the University of Massachusetts Physical Plant for 30 years as a groundskeeper.

Richard will be remembered not only for his remarkable musical talent, but also for his bright smile and great sense of humor. He loved making people laugh and brought joy to those fortunate enough to know him.

Richard leaves his lifelong best friend, Carol Midura; his children, Susan DeVine and her husband, William, of Wilbraham; Laurie O’Shepa and her husband, Michael, of Northampton; and Michael Midura and his wife, Maria, of Virginia; his grandchildren, Matthew DeVine, Kristen Whitlow, and Michelle Morse; and his great-grandson, Lucas Whitlow. He was a cherished father and grandfather who will be missed dearly.

Later in life, Richard became a resident of the Veterans Home at Holyoke, where he found a second family among the staff and residents. Richard truly loved the people there, and they loved him just as much. His bright smile, sense of humor, and ability to make others laugh made him a special part of the community. The staff cared for Richard with kindness, compassion, and dignity, forming bonds with him that went far beyond their roles as caregivers. His family will always be deeply grateful for the love, friendship, and exceptional care they gave Richard during his time there.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard’s memory may be made to the Veterans Home at Holyoke in gratitude for the exceptional care, friendship, and compassion they provided to Richard.

At the request of the family, all services will be held privately. Wilbraham Funeral Home is assisting the family.