Waclaw Joseph Polak

Waclaw Joseph Polak, 93, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on May 12, 1933, in Srebrna, Poland, Waclaw lived a life marked by perseverance, integrity, and a deep commitment to those he loved.

Waclaw was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georgette Catherine Polak, just ten days earlier; his parents, Jan and Marianna Polak; his brother, Thaddeus Polak; his half-brother and half-sister; his daughter, Debbie Jennings; his grandchildren, Ashley Polak and Codi Alexander; and his great-granddaughter, Penelope Ott.

He is survived by his children, Michael (Jeannie) Polak, Laurel (David) Lindsay, Lisa (Bruce) Alexander, and Christine Polak; 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, who were the source of great joy and pride throughout his life; and many beloved relatives in Poland.

As a young boy, Waclaw endured hardships that few could imagine. Forced to leave Poland during World War II, he experienced loss, displacement, and uncertainty before eventually immigrating to the United States. Despite those early challenges, he never allowed adversity to define him. Instead, he built a life filled with purpose, family, and opportunity. His journey reflected the courage and determination that carried him through every season of life.

Waclaw proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Following his military service, he worked for many years at the United States Postal Service Vehicle Maintenance Facility in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he was known for his dependability, strong work ethic, and dedication to providing for his family.

Waclaw was a man of few words, but his love for his family was never in question. Patient, hardworking, humble, and devoted, he showed his love through his actions, sacrifices, loyalty, and steady presence. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy came from spending time with those he loved. His marriage to Georgette was the foundation of the family they built together and a testament to a love that spanned nearly 68 years. He enjoyed life's simple pleasures, especially watching football and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers and Notre Dame. He also enjoyed bird watching and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him endless happiness and pride.

Nothing brought Waclaw greater happiness than being surrounded by those he loved. His legacy lives on in the strength of his family, the values he modeled, and the countless sacrifices, acts of love, and quiet examples of perseverance that defined his life.

Calling hours will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Church of the Ascension, 555 South Main Street, Johnstown, Ohio 43031.

A church service celebrating the lives of Waclaw and Georgette Polak will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Church of the Ascension. A graveside burial service will follow at Wesley Chapel Cemetery, 3225 Dublin Road, Upper Arlington, Ohio 43221.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial contributions to a veterans organization of your choice in honor of Waclaw's service and sacrifice.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Waclaw throughout his journey and helped surround him with dignity, comfort, and love in his final days.