Joseph R. Soychak

Tilton Joseph Soychak Joseph Soychak, a beloved father and versatile musician who under his stage name Joey Richards opened the landmark Cabaret dance hall in Tilton, died Dec. 17 at the New Hampshire Veterans Home after a long struggle with Lewy body dementia. He was 91. Born March 9, 1925 in Lisbon Falls, Maine, to Slovak immigrant parents, Joseph served in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II. He returned home to complete his high school diploma, and attended the University of Maine, Orono, where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega. Over the years, his exploits included a cross-country tour to Los Angeles by Harley Davidson, helping construct the Dickey Bridge in Allagash, Maine, working as a cook and entertainer on the sailing ship Maverick in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, writing technical manuals for helicopters at Kaman Aircraft in Connecticut, and golfing on a frozen Webster Lake in February. Always ready with a song and a smile, Joey Richards entertained vacationers and locals alike with his guitar and singing in the cozy 1960's nightlife scene of the Lakes Region -- at times sharing the bill with his friend, popular local musician Shep Spinney. In 1966 he married Glenys Dearnley, also of Lisbon Falls. Daughter Elizabeth Anna was born the following year. Drawn to the natural beauty and commercial potential of the Lakes Region, the family moved to a house on Route 3 in Lochmere. It was there, in 1969, that he and Glenys opened Joey Richards' Cabaret in a barn on the property. The legendary rock and roll venue hosted bands from across northern New England, attracting music lovers from all over New Hampshire. The Cabaret finally closed in 1979, and is fondly remembered across the region to this day. After his marriage ended in divorce in 1991, Joseph moved to Northfield Village, where he continued regaling neighbors with his singing and guitar. In his later years, he played the "senior circuit' of retirement homes around the Lakes Region. Joseph is survived by his daughter Elizabeth, son-in-law Sam Coley, longtime companion Sandi Bleggi and four stepchildren: John Zimmerman, Robert Zimmerman, Jane Zimmerman Loret de Mola, and Fred Zimmerman. He also leaves two nieces and a nephew. A musical event celebrating his life will be held in the Lakes Region in summer 2017 -- details to be announced. Those wishing to honor his memory can send donations to the NHVH Resident Benefit Fund, c/o New Hampshire Veterans Home, 139 Winter St., Tilton, NH 03276. https://www.nh.gov/veterans/support/index.htm