Joseph L. Romanchak

Mr. Romanchak was my chorus teacher and taught me how to stand in front of a crowd and be brave.

I started piano lessons at 8 years old from a nice old woman up the street. Standardized lessons, so I quit after a few months. Then a neighbor who was going to Joe for organ lessons, suggested I tag along for an introduction to Joe. He was so different in his approach, he asked me, what songs do you want to play and taught me what chords were. It was like a door opened up. Major 7th, minors, diminished...within a month I was playing The Doors light my fire and Beatles Elenor Rigby. He was...

"Uncle Joe" as we knew him was a wonderful teacher and mentor. He was my general music teacher for 7th and 8th grade and my choir director when I arrived at EP Memorial HS. Even after he left EP, he helped me on his own time, prepare for North Jersey Regional try outs when I was a senior. He helped me earn a spot in the 1967 NJRC, something that I will always treasure. Uncle Joe inspired so many of us to enjoy and treasure choral singing. Bill Roper, EPMHS Class of 1967

Thank you for all you did at Hampton House to make resident day have some music .God Bless

I often wondered about Joe. He was my piano teacher 60 years ago. He had such talent and sparkle. So sad to learn he has passed. I still play piano. RIP Joe

11-16-17 - the day the music died. And yet, not at all. Mr. R and his love for music live on through the lives of all of us who were privileged to cross paths with him. And what a gift he gave us! His sense of humor, his extraordinary piano playing and his love for his students - these are the things that I remember most. Thank you Mr. R - I will never forget you.

HHHS Class of 74

Hi Mr. Romanchak,
I was listening to the Hallelujah Chorus on the radio today and it brought wonderful memories of you and the joy you brought to your students at East Paterson Mem. HS. You were among the most wonderful teachers I've ever had, and I always looked forward to our choir classes. Your zest, enthusiasm and knowledge of music and how to share with your students were without a doubt the highpoint of those days for me and many others. I know you will be an angel and bring music ...

Because of you, Joe, I learned and loved the language of music. You were a wonderful friend and teacher. Words can not express my sorrow. I will miss you!

Thank you Mr Romanchak. You were my music teacher at East Paterson High School. You gave me a love of music I've enjoyed my whole life. You made it fun!