Felix "Phil" Wielewinski

Felix “Phil” Wielewinski, 95, bravely crossed the River Jordan, trumpet in hand, on February 22, 2025.

He was born in Schenectady, NY on January 20th, 1930, the son of the late Paul and Catherine Wielewinski, the youngest of 7 children. 

As a young man, he served in the US Army during the Korean War as the camp bugler, “sleeping in” by mistake only once. He shaped many young minds in South Colonie Schools, where he was a loved and respected music teacher. He could play any instrument he touched. He had his own band called Horns a’ Plenty, and even wrote and sang a few songs of his own. 

Phil dabbled in many areas as an entrepreneur from selling trinkets, to trip and event planning. He loved the challenging changes in technology and, if a company had tech support, he got to know them personally and we are certain they will be staring at their phones fruitlessly waiting for his routine calls for help. He was a proud member of the Albany Polish Community Center. Phil and his wife, Lonie, enjoyed attending countless Polka dances and festivals, both near and far. He loved Jesus and frequently spoke of going home to be with him, especially in these last months. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Lonie; dog, Charlie; 4 stepdaughters, Jennifer (Chris) Wright, Valerie Balga, Darcy (Dennis) Cyr, and Brenda (Jason) Yung; best known as “Grampy Phil” to: Kyle Wallstrom, Morgan and Abby Wright, Madeline and Wolfgang Balga, Emma and Matthew Cyr, and Jason Jr, Jennifer (Rood), Joshua and Jessica Yung; two great-grandsons; and several nieces and nephews to cherish his memory. 

Memories of his pure, loving, baritone voice reading children’s stories as a doting grandpa will be deeply missed amongst other things. 

Please join us in sharing memories and stories remembering this vintage treasure on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy-Schenectady Road, Watervliet. A funeral ceremony will follow the calling hours at 6 p.m. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Phil's name to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society.