OBITUARY

Richard John Polgar

September 6, 1969 – February 4, 2021

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rick Polgar on February 4, 2021 at the Brantford General Hospital in his 52nd year. Beloved son of Mary and the late Steve Polgar. Loving brother of Steve Jr. (Cathy) and Mike (Denise). Dear uncle of Monica, Cade, Madison and Ella. Sadly missed by his Aunt Mary and cousins in Australia as well as his Aunts Teresa and Irene in Hungary and many close friends. In his early life Rick was very active in sports and his academics. He became a lawyer, graduating from North Dakota and McGill University, where he played football. He was a sports agent with clients in the CFL and NFL. In Brantford, he played baseball, basketball and football where he made many lasting friendships. Although he struggled with a long illness in his later years he always maintained a positive attitude and his excellent sense of humor. The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff of C7 at the Brantford General Hospital for their compassionate care of Rick. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to THORPE BROTHERS’ FUNERAL HOME. As expressions of sympathy donations to Brantford Community Health Services Foundation would be appreciated. Memories and condolences may be shared below.

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Richard John Polgar

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Earl Zukerman

February 17, 2021

OBIT: Rick Polgar, sports agent and McGill football linebacker, was 51

MONTREAL – Rick Polgar, a product of the McGill University football program who went on to a legal career as a sports agent, passed away on Feb. 4 at Brantford General Hospital. He was 51.

A native of Brantford, Ont., who was born on Sept. 6, 1969, he had been battling with multiple sclerosis for more than two decades.

Polgar, a 5-foot-10, 234-pound linebacker, was recruited out of the St. John's College Eagles and played three seasons at McGill before graduating in 1992 with an arts degree in history and political science. He went on to study law at the University of North Carolina.

Among the first clients he signed were McGill grads Jean-Philippe Darche and Randy Chevrier, both of whom went on to a pro football careers in the CFL and NFL. He also represented Val St. Germain, a McGill product who had an NFL tryout with the Green Bay Packers and a lengthy CFL career.

"He was a good man, very determined and passionate," recalled Chevrier in a telephone conversation from Calgary. "He often described himself as being politely persistent."

Despite struggling many years with his illness, Polgar managed to maintain a positive attitude and sense of humour.

"I will remember Rick as a very dedicated, bright and driven man," said Dr. Darche, currently a team physician for the Kansas City Chiefs. "He was instrumental in me getting an opportunity to play in the NFL, for which I will always be thankful."

Predeceased by his father (Steve), he is survived by his mother (Mary) and two brothers (Steve Jr. and Mike). Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private mass was held at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date. The family has suggested that donations may be made to the Brantford Community Health Services Foundation. Memories and messages of condolence can be posted online.

SOURCE
Earl Zukerman
Communications Officer
McGillAthletics & Recreation

Wendy Holloway(RD)

February 9, 2021

I send heartfelt condolences to all the family. I remember Rick fondly for his sense of humour. He was a pleasure to visit as he always made me smile.

Caroline Davidson

February 8, 2021

Dear Mary & family:

I am very sorry to hear about your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Josephine Brown & family

George Bell

February 8, 2021

Mrs. Polgar and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Richards passing. We had many great conversations when he used to travel with Operation Lift. He was a very loving, caring and smart gentleman!
I will forever hold our chats in my memories.
You and your family are in my heart and thoughts.

George

David Rourke

February 7, 2021

... and that smile!

David Rourke

February 7, 2021

My deepest condolences to the Polgar family. Rick was the epitome of sincerity, friendship and leadership, both on and off the court. Great memories from CYO and SJC. Truly one of the good guys; his loss leaves me with a heavy heart.

mary Taylor

February 7, 2021

One summer day Rick, as a student, came to our house selling steak knives.

After making his presentation, I asked about the price. When he told me, I looked into his big, beautiful eyes and asked, “Do you know why I’m buying these, because it’s you and being Maltese helps too”. We laughed and laughed. We talked more about Malta.

He had the great gift of gab and told him he should become a salesman. He mentioned he was thinking about Law. I told him that was close enough. I did encounter Rick a few more times, but that day is my favourite memory of him.

He was a beautiful man, and I’m sure he is looking down with much love and pride on all his family but especially his devoted mom, Mary,

Mary Taylor

Ken Taylor

February 7, 2021

Hello Polgar family,
I am so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing.
Rick was a dear friend to me as well as many others in his life.
I was a great fan of Rick both as a person and as an athlete.
He played the game with great enthusiasm and purity. I loved to hear him talk about professional sports. He was extremely knowledgeable about the inner workings and would have become a wonderful sports agent had this terrible illness not taken over his life.
We will miss his presence forever.
Sincerely,
Ken Taylor

Joan Jacquemain

February 7, 2021

Dear Mary, Steve and Mike
George and I send you our thoughts and prayers in memory of Rick.We have prayed for him many Sundays at St Pius Mass. A few years ago I happened to see Rick at St. Joseph’s Hospital.We had a very enjoyable visit . He did not complain about his illness and I have admired his strength to bear it. Mary I know that you have been such a huge support for Rick throughout these years.

Ken Taylor

February 7, 2021

Hello Polgar family,
I am so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing.
Rick was a dear friend to me as well as many others in his life.
I was a great fan of Rick both as a person and as an athlete.
He played the game with great enthusiasm and purity. I loved to hear him talk about professional sports. He was extremely knowledgeable about the inner workings and would have become a wonderful sports agent had this terrible illness not taken over his life.
We will miss his presence forever.
Sincerely,
Ken Taylor

FROM THE FAMILY

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