When I first came across this photo, I didn’t think I’d uncover much about it. But, to my surprise, diving into the history of the J. Ekstowicz Radio Orchestra turned out to be pretty fascinating.
Source: Original photo by the J. A. Ribinshi photo studio
Joseph Ekstowicz, born in Bayonne, New Jersey, in 1914, was a musical talent from a young age. By 16, he was already making waves, and just a year later, he started his own orchestra. Over the years, he became a local fixture, performing at dances, community events, and just about every local gathering you can think of. His orchestra, known as the J. Ekstowicz Radio Orchestra for WAAT radio, was a big deal in Bayonne.
In 1940, Joseph married Florence Mizerek, and together they had three children—two sons and a daughter. They settled down in Bayonne and spent their lives there.
Joseph later renamed his band the Joe Eks Orchestra and kept the music going throughout his life.
Sadly, the Ekstowicz family faced a heartbreaking tragedy when their youngest son, Joseph Jr., was killed in a car accident. He was in a head-on collision with a driver going the wrong way, and he had been married for just two months before the accident.
Joseph Sr. passed away in 1983 at 68, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.
Comments