Like many here  with kids that  attending Bellview Elementery  School, all kids were apprehensive of Mrs. Polk.   
All parents hope their kids will be in her class.. Strong but fair.. 
She touched a lot of kids and adults life, then we met Jerry..

Pam had to be spunky to keep up with Jerry.. 
Great couple that will be missed terribly.

Condolences to her son, grandkids, relatives and many friends.. 

Heaven now has 2 teachers, mentors and giving individuals


Thanks for the memories

Kim Teggerdine
Tami, Evan and Alexa Hackenberg

I am so sorry to hear that the world will now be without Jerry and Pamela Polk. After living both of their lives in service to their community and country, I have no doubts that both of them will be able to rest peacefully in heaven because they have more than earned their place there. It takes a special type of person to be a mentor, teacher, and leader, that was one of the many things that POP was able to able to show me from the high standard that he held, and displayed. Knowing him was an honor, and a privilege. I will never forget nor take for granted the blessing I was granted  just to know him.  I have so many memories of him teaching us to be honest, polite, dignified, and strong. I knew POP was always a man I could trust, the type of person that I didn't need to ask to keep a private conversation in confidence, because  with a man like him it went without saying. Maybe that part of him he brought from Texas with so many of his hilarious stories. There were times when I thought I could pull a fast one on the other end of the school, or somewhere afterwards, and I'd make my move, well to my surprise it seemed like everytime, so did he because, he would always find me somewhere I'd never expect him to be and let loose on me, pointing out where how and why whatever I did that time was wrong, and not acceptable behavior. But then there were the times when he would sneak up on me the same way and tell me how proud of me he was and why, he would send me away feeling so good about myself which was an odd thing to expirence since one minute prior he scared the s*** out of me by sneaking up on me so silently. My thought would always be "Oh s*** what'd I do? Did I do something? I'm always doing something! Here it comes!" but then he would look down at me with the deer in the headlights look on my guilty teenage face and tell me how he was proud of me and why so, as I shook in my shoes. Pop I will always look up to you! Just knowing you made me a better man. Godspeed



In a way im lost of what words to say becuase there are so wonderful things to say about Petty Officer Polk.  POP(as most to all of us call him) had this nature to him of always helping the ones in need.  I was one of those troubled teen, and POP seen me differently. He gave me a chance, believed in me.  I would not be the women i am today without the influence of him.  He will always he in my heart.  My prays go out to his family,  friends, mentees, coworkers, ect.  Petty Officer Polk will never be forgotten.  

Pop was a wonderful man my daughter Jamie  would not be were she is today with out his guidance and descipline we had so much fun in  Washington DC he was such a gentleman May God help the family with there loss

When my daughter codi told me she joined the jrotc program, I wasn't real happy. After meeting Capt. And Pop, I realized she was in great hands. Both these men taught our kids so much more than what one would expect. I'll never forget our field trips. I think I had more fun than the kids. And sharing the pig hunt with pop, his son mike and Dana was one of the finest  hunts I've been on. You will be sorely missed Pop. 

This was a man who was incredibly patient with myself through some rockier years in high school as a troublesome teenager at times.   His fairness, straightforwardness and kindness has stuck with me since.   Sincerest condolences to his family, loved ones and colleagues.   Godspeed.

The world is a lesser place without POP (as I knew him) and his wonderful wife. The teachings of this man helped that shape so many including myself will be remembered fondly.  I graduated from Franklin in 2008 after 4 years in the NJROTC  unit. He was not afraid to give some tough love but was always there when needed.  I have such great memories including trips to Tony's for a reward, weekly inspections that taught discipline and the fun trips taken. He helped me learn to laugh at myself even when I wanted to crawl into a hole of embarrassment after managing to fall UP the stairs.  He will be missed by many and my heart goes out to his family during this incredibly tragic time. 

I was so nervous to have Mrs. Polk in fourth grade, because everyone said she was the "mean one." But you know what? She wasn't. She was firm, she had high expectations, and she didn't let us get away with bullshit. But she was warm, funny, and pushed us to be our best.

I'll never forget how much I loved coming back from lunch, because she'd read Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing out loud to us. How she made me re-write my essay on insects because she said it wasn't my best (she was right). How she encouraged us to read books that interested us, instead of books people told us we should read. More than twenty years later, she still sticks out as one of the formative teachers in my educational journey.

Not to mention, she and her husband lived around the block from me and gave out the BEST Halloween candy.

Good teachers leave an impression for a lifetime, and Mrs. Polk was excellent. Sending love and light to their family during this dark time.

Sir, you were a shining example of what it means to be smart, tough, kind and caring, all at the same time.  You've molded many lives throughout your career at Franklin High School and your memory will live on in the hearts of those you touched.  My sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of this wonderful man. 

Thanks “Pop” and Pam for all your work with Franklin JROTC . You molded so many young lives. Rest In Peace 

Pam and I taught the 6th grades at Roosevelt back in the 80s.  We called ourselves "Cagney and Lacey" because we worked hard to get those kids to shape up and enjoy school!  Together we did it!  Pam's great sense of humor and her capacity to love students were some of the gifts she brought to her students.  We recently reconnected on Facebook.  My heart is heavy for the loss of my friend.  Her son Mark, and family and all who grieve hers and Jerry's passing are in my prayers.
She and Jerry look so happy in their photos.  My deepest sympathies to all.
Pam's friend,
Dianne Miller

I remember being at Franklin High school and working in the school restaurant. I remember POP would come in everyday and he would get Iced tea, and would teach us things about self defense and just life. He always knew how to make you smile when you had a rough day. He was amazing to sit and just listen to talk, he passed on so much in his lifetime to all the students he knew. I was blessed to be able to share my time and life with such and amazing man. Until next time I see you sir, may you rest in peace. Prayers for comfort for everyone at this time. My birthday will never be the same, I will always remember you. 

Jerry Polk was indeed one-of-a-kind.  The positive influence he had on so many is indeed reflected by the sentiments written on this site, and his loss will be felt by many.  His wife Pam was well known to all of his students;  he spoke glowingly of her often in class.  At least they are together, forever.  Fair Winds, and Following Seas.

It's impossible to capture what this man achieved in so many peoples lives.. you would think he'd lived for 200 years. 

I too count myself very lucky as one of his students. I graduated class of 2004 from Franklin and his daily anecdotes, his passion for his students, and the level of seriousness that he brought to the table literally molded respect and wisdom into everyone he came into contact with. 

To everyone outside of ROTC, they didn't understand how a teacher could mean so much to so many. When 9/11 happened our ROTC class came in early and wore our uniforms and saluted the flag in formation as it was being raised, it was timed so that as everyone else stumbled into school before their first hour, our group captured a moment in time and it was then that I grew by leaps and bounds. That moment will forever strengthen me.. Pop understood that we needed to show strength at a time when fear and uncertainty tainted every moment; this man was a great bear of a leader, with an even bigger heart. He would lend his strength of will to anyone that crossed his path and make it his mission to right the path you were on.

He was truly one of a kind and like others have mentioned, I carry his words and wisdom and kindness with me in many intangible ways every day. I will never forget how he would sacrifice himself for his students and always do everything in his power to help someone be successful. He was an amazing gift to the world that I will continue to challenge myself to carry on, and he will be sorely missed.

Godspeed Pop.

On behalf of the Eastpointe Police and Fire families,  we are deeply sorry for your sudden loss. We will always be here to support you no matter what. Many prayers to your family.  

George T. Rouhib Jr. 
Director of Public Safety   

In my years of njrotc cheiff polk was always know to us as petty officer polk, petty officer or pop, but he was much more then just that. He was someone who changed so many young lives and always made you accountable for thing that you did rather they were right or wrong. He always knew if you were up to something just by the way you walked into the room. If he told you to do something you did it without question all the way to making a shirt with initials for nicknames over 4 years and he made you make a shirt and ended up beimg front and back. I presented it at my senior mil ball where for the first time i saw him cry. I remeber when he thanked me he higged me and said thanks kid for making me cry. From a cedar point field trip and i was afrid of riding the power tower he made me go sitting next to him and when it was over him telling me i made him go deff. He was always there to give the best advice even when it wasnt what you wanted to hear or make sense at the time. He teased evereyone with some favorites but always treated everyone the same in all good fun. Both him and Mrs.polk will be deeply missed. It's so tradgic and heartbreaking to see a beloved man gone to soon. 

It's impossible to chronicle the endless number of memories that I have of POP, like so many others from Franklin. From teasing me about the dance moves my sister and I would bust out in the car on the way to school (his route took him right by our house, and we often arrived to school at the same time), to keeping an eye on my younger brother years after I'd left Franklin, he knew exactly what each student needed to be successful and did everything he could to ensure they got it. He is the most memorable and influential teacher I've ever had, and the world is a much lesser place without him in it. I regret not visiting or keeping in touch, but he has been with me every day of my life since meeting him, in a thousand silent, powerful ways. Rest peacefully, Pam and Jerry. You will be so missed.

POP taught me in NJROTC and was one of the reasons why I joined the navy. I used to come and talk in his classes and always took his advise when it was given.

Franklin HS JROTC Class of 2007

This man has by far been one of the biggest role modles in my life, a true embodiment of leadership, duty, respect, selfless service, honesty, integrity, and personal courage. He was always tough but fair, and willing to stick his neck out for you at the drop of a hat. He was there when you would need him the most, whether it was the chewing out you didn't know you needed or his unequivocal ability to listen and understand. He commanded the room whenever he went, he never demanded anyones respect but he sure as hell earned it. This man spewed wisdom and advise to anyone willing to listen. POP you helped shape me into the man I am today and I thank you for your mentorship and guidance.

Until Valhalla

Petty Officer was the most intelligent man I ever met. The definition of integrity. Stern when he needed to be but with always an undertone of good humor and kindness. He stood up for me at times when I felt totally alone.  His understanding matched only by the quality of his advice.  Rarely does much time pass in my life when I'm not struck with a memory of him. I'm thankful to have been able to cross paths with such an exceptional man. I will never forget him.


This is a great loss to all who knew them.  Working with Jerry (POP) for over 10 years, I learned on a daily basis how much he cared for and loved everybody he encountered.  Jerry was a powerful man who entered a room and immediately commanded respect, yet he had a gentle side that endeared him to all.  
I always felt honored to be with Jerry because he was a true American hero and patriot.  I will miss Jerry, and his dear wife Pam, but their memory will always be with me and will continue to challenge me to be a better person.
Unfortunately I am in Florida and will not be able to attend their memorial, but Jerry and Pam will be in my prayers.
Commander and Mrs John Lister

POP (Chief) was an amazing man. My brother (Kenny Donaldson) and I spent 3 years under his wing for NJROTC at Franklin High School.  He taught my brother and I that times may be rough, but life is what you make of it. POP was always there, and he never gave up on us. I will always remember his stern words, and his guidance through my tough times. When other teachers gave up on us, he never did. He will be greatly missed by us. RIP Chief, hope we made you proud. 

I’m so sorry for your loss. Petty Officer Polk, or POP, was a great man. He was my ROTC teacher my junior year (1998-99) and he made me LOVE going to school. He told the best stories, and the best life lessons. I went on to join the Navy and always hoped I’d have made him proud. Fair winds and following seas, shipmate

Pam and Jerry (Batman) were the Greatest!!!!  Pam was not only my crochet teacher, but my wonderful friend, as well!!!...and of course thru Pam, I met her wonderful husband Jerry...I will always Love and miss them both soooo much. xoxox

Mrs. Polk was my 4th grade teacher and was absolutely wonderful. She was a teacher I remembered fondly and learned a lot from that still sticks today. She was fun and kind and took pride in her role as a teacher. I'm so heavily saddened by this news and am sending all of my love to the family at this time. She will absolutely be missed <3 

Michael and Family - 

I am truly at a loss for words.  My daughters were both in NJROTC at Franklin High school and the impact your parents made on the lives of not only my children, but countless others is priceless.   
The laughs, jokes and stern moments will be remembered always. 

Prayers to you and your family during this very difficult time. 

The Sautter/Scott families. 

Pam was my son's 4th grade teacher. She was so good and patience with him. She always gave him gave him the confidence that he could do anything that he wanted to do. She even came up to watch one of his baseball games and he thought that was so cool. I became friends with her when I became the cook for Bellview. I could go to her class and talk about anything and everything. I helped out a lot when my son was in her class and remember Jerry coming in and helping out too. He was so good with the kids and they all loved him. Sending prayers to their families and to say they will be deeply missed.

Dear Michael and Family;

As a parent of two sons who were part of the NJROTC program at Franklin High School I want to pass on my and my wife’s deepest sympathies.  Our prayers are with you during this most difficult of time.

I hope you find some comfort in knowing the profound impact your father and mother had on the students and families they committed themselves to.  

My sons both tell me that they are better men for being mentored by your father.  As a parent, there was great comfort in knowing the that they had a man of integrity and honor giving them guidance during their HS experience.

I loved hearing them share stories of their encounters with your dad - the jokes he would play that would make them feel like they really belonged to something special.  He demanded they give respect to others and that they have respect for themselves.

Thank you for sharing your parents with us.  



Cheif Polk ( as I learned the last time I visited being told how nice having to take all of your uniforms in to be changed after being advanced) was the largest influence on myself and many others during our time in the jrotc program. From the time we were issued our first uniforms to after graduation you were there for us. It didn't matter what the situation was regardless of if it was needing an ear to listen or someone to reality check you, he was that person. You were a leader like no other, and never accepted less than our best and you taught us how to achieve it.  You will be greatly missed Pops.

A normal high school experience is to have a good teacher for a semester or so. Let alone have an excellent teacher all 4 years of school.
"POP" was more than a teacher to all of us. POP had a way of instilling confidence in you that you didnt know you had. He ran a tight ship at Franklin and it made myself and so many other kids better for it. The stories, nicknames and jokes he made at your own expense made those 4 years wonderful. The fun, trips and memories I cherish forever. Along with the friends along the way. 

My deepest sympathies go out to the family of Mrs. Polk and CPOP Polk as the world is not nearly as bright without them in it. 

I could never say enough to truly thank Jerry Polk.  His mentorship brought me to where I am today. He was a great Shipmate and a shining beacon for all those who he cared for. Fair winds and following seas to Jerry and his wife, we have the watch. 
YNSC(SS) Tomaszewski

I was a para-pro in special ed @ Franklin --Jerry or "Pops" was always so kind to us and our students.  Several of them had the pleasure of being in ROTC.  Jerry seem like a "tough" military guy.  But, he had a heart of gold.  He was firm but also very caring with his ROTC students.
On Fridays, he would stop at West Fenkell Bakery and bring in goodies for the staff.
My fondness memory, was one year,  around Easter, and he dress up in a Pink Bunny costume, and walk the hallways.  Funniness was is when he did inspection of his students, and they had to remain in formation--with a straight face.
A great man----will be miss!

I met "pops" petty office polk.. As many of livonia franklin NJROTC know him as in 2003 when I joined rotc and he changed my life I had a little bit of attitude when I got to high school.  But he gave me an attitude adjustment.  He showed me tough love and even looked at him like a father since mine was not in my life.  He help me make my high school exspirence wonderful with all the trips and dances we had.  He was such amazing man and teacher and mentor be will be truely missed.  I'm so sorry for his family a loss as I know they are hurting like all of his students.  Realy wish I could be there for the viewing but I am far away in another state.  RIP POPS say hi to mom for me as I know I have gained another guardian angel!!!  

He was always there to help his students when he could.. he wasn't afraid to use tough love to motivate us. He was there when we needed to talk or to keep us out of trouble.  He will be missed by all the students lives he's touched.  
Cindy Swarthout 

"Pop" as many of us in the NJROTC at Franklin High School referred to him as changed my life. They say there is always one teacher in your life that you will remember and that will challenge you to be a better person and this was him for me. He was the most caring person I knew.  We made a lot of memories taking annual trips and competing in different IDR contests against other schools, he was always there to support us and let us know how proud he was. Such a tragic loss, God definitely gained an angel. This picture was Graduation Day. RIP Pops, you will be greatly missed. 

Extremely sorry for the loss of a great man and his wife. I first met Petty Officer in 2005 when I moved into the Livonia school district and was in JROTC. He was a tough guy, but had a heart of gold and would do anything to help out a student. He was a good mentor and friend, and he'll be missed dearly.

OBITUARY

Jerry and Pamela Polk

Kaul Funeral Home

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