Jozef Surowiec

Jozef Surowiec passed away suddenly, but peacefully, on November 30, 2021, at the age of 63.  Hailing from Wydminy, Poland, Jozef was born on March 3, 1958, to Franciszek and Rozalia (Szwedko) Surowiec.  After completing his education in food sciences, he pivoted to music in earnest, first in Poland, then in the U.S. He came to Baltimore in 1986 and pursued his music studies, earning a Bachelor of Music in voice studies at the Peabody Conservatory, and a Master of Music in opera performance at the University of Maryland.  Endlessly passionate about music and performing, and bestowed with an instantly recognizable baritone voice, Jozef most recently served as the organist at Holy Rosary Church for over 10 years.  He shared his many musical talents with others by singing, performing and teaching voice lessons for much of his life.  A self-proclaimed Renaissance man, he also worked as a longshoreman at the Port of Baltimore, and previously worked as a chemical analyst at W.R. Grace in Columbia, Maryland.

Jozef greeted everyone with his colorful personality and boisterous spirit, and left an indelible mark on all who crossed his path. A master of small talk and always the life of the party, Jozef formed lasting friendships everywhere he went. His wit and sense of humor will not soon be forgotten by his family and many friends.

Jozef was preceded in death by his parents, Franciszek and Rozalia, and is survived by his beloved wife, Ewa Surowiec, and children, Justyna Surowiec Jayne, Sylwia Surowiec Lambert and Adam Surowiec; as well as his sisters, Lucja Ingielewicz and Helena Laciuga; and his nieces and nephews.

Jozef will be honored with a funeral mass on December 11 at 11 a.m. at Holy Rosary Church, immediately followed by interment at St. Stanislaus Cemetery in Baltimore.  A celebration of his life will follow in a gathering space at Holy Rosary Church—all are welcome to attend and share their memories and favorite songs that remind them of Jozef.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Holy Rosary Church in Jozef's honor.