John D. "Don" Polson

John Donald "Don" Polson was born in Detroit, Michigan on June 12, 1929, to Julia (nee: Havlena) Polson & John L. Polson. Don passed away suddenly, in his Westland, Michigan home on Thursday, September 23, 2021, at the age of 92.

Don was the beloved husband of the late Betty Polson and the loving, wonderful father of Sandra (Stewart) Dodge, Barbara (Frank) Mathis, and John (Josie) Polson. The very proud grandpa of Andrew Dodge (fiancée Autumn Drost), Samuel, Max, Jacob, Lillian, and Mia Polson. Dear brother-in-law of Fred (Dottie) Cathers and uncle to their three adult children. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Julia, and John.

Don learned about service early in life. As a teen, he was a youth advisor in his church, served in the U.S. Army from 1951-1953, and came home to serve as an Elder in his church. He continued in that role at Trumbull Presbyterian, Evergreen Village Presbyterian, and his final church, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian for a total of 70 years. He also served as a scout leader and in the Detroit Area Council, helping train other leaders. In his later years, Don took part in a clown ministry – serving God through clowning alongside friends from his church – as well as writing a bimonthly church newsletter, and volunteering in the library at his retirement community.

He was employed as an estimator for a variety of printing companies and has been retired for 22 years.

Most importantly, Don loved spending time with his family and friends. He looked forward to each opportunity of togetherness. He will be missed by all that loved and knew him. His kindness, generosity, quick wit, thoughtful responses, advice, and willingness to help others will forever be remembered.

Don’s family will receive friends for visitation to be held from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 25439 Plymouth Road, Redford Township, Michigan 48239.

Don’s family will celebrate his life with a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM on Thursday, September 30, 2021 at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 26701 Joy Road, Dearborn Heights, Michigan 48127. The service will be led by Reverend Emily Campbell. Final viewing at the church will begin at 10:00 AM.

Don will be laid to rest in Glen Eden Memorial Park Cemetery, Livonia, Michigan.

Contributions in Don’s memory may be made to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared in the online guest book below.