Ron graduated from East Butler High School in Brainard, Nebraska in 1964. Following graduation, he attended SCC - Milford where he studied auto mechanics. He then attended University of Nebraska - Lincoln where he obtained a Bachelor's of Business Administration. Ron was employed by Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing and worked as a purchasing manager, and after 29 years, retired as a production manager. On October 25, 1967, Ron married his high school sweetheart, Marcene Helman. From this union, four children were born: Ronald J., Geena, Frederic, and Jenny. In 1975, they built their family home on ten acres near Emerald, Nebraska. During their 47 years on the acreage, they planted many gardens, a thriving orchard, raised bees, chickens, and cows for beef. In 2004, they bought 160 acres in Blue Springs, Nebraska and built a cabin retreat to enjoy using their place for hunting, fishing, and relaxation.
Ron enjoyed traveling the world with his wife, Marcene, and their children. Highlights included cruises, touring Europe, China, Japan, and over 75% of the United States. Ron's passion was outdoor activities, especially hunting and fishing. He took pride in making sure he took his grandchildren hunting and fishing to pass along his love of the outdoors. He was with each grandchild when they shot their first deer. He was an avid member of Pheasants Forever and spent fifteen years raising pheasants and quail. During the summer, he loved getting his boat and Jet-ski out on the lake with his family.
Ron and Marcene were in a bowling league for several years and also enjoyed playing cards with friends in their pitch club. They passed along their love of playing cards and board games to their children and grandchildren. He was active in the church community as a lector and volunteer at both St. Mary's and North American Martyrs Catholic Churches.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Marcene; children, Ronald J. (Amy) Polivka, Geena (Darren) Mehl, Frederic (Amy) Polivka, and Jenny (Tim) McNeese; grandchildren, Cami (Corey) Wickstrom, Daniel Polivka, Treyton (Halle) McNeese, Conner (Megan) Mehl, Stephanie Polivka, James McNeese, Taylor Polivka, Addi Polivka, Brody McNeese, and Jacob (Kelsey) Mehl; great-grandchildren, Palmer Mehl, Kaleb Mehl, and Brant Mehl; brother, James Jr. (Jean) Polivka; sister, Irene (Lee) Stara; sister-in-law, Judi Polivka; along with many nieces, nephews, and loved ones.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jerome Polivka; father and mother-in-law, Fred and Lucille Helman; best friend, Ed "Cubby" Tomkiewicz; along with aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 6:00 - 7:00 pm, Rosary starting at 7:00 pm at North American Martyrs Catholic Church, 1101 Isaac Drive, Lincoln, Nebraska 68521. The Mass of Christian Burial will be offered for Mr. Ronald Lee Polivka on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 10:30 am at North American Martyrs Catholic Church. Burial will be on Monday at Lincoln Memorial Park and Cemetery with family and friends meeting at Gate #2 prior to the service at 1:30 pm. Memorials designated to North American Martyrs Catholic School.
