Marty Polk
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We remember this wonderful man, Marty Polk: son, father, brother, grandfather, and friend. Marty was born on January 12, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to William and Frances Polk, both of whom he took great care of in the last part of their lives. He had four siblings: Billy (Sandy), Howie (deceased)(Mary), Leah, and Joey (deceased). His only daughter, Kristie (Todd) and Marty's grandsons,Blake (19) and Alec (16), live in Washington.
Marty was a veteran, serving in the Marines, where he worked as a computer operator. He spent most of his career "on the road" as a truck driver, working for Prime Meats in Chicago and Baxter Health Care in Arizona. Prior to retirement, he had his own business, "Blake's Sedan Service" driving a town car around the Phoenix area. Living in Arizona, enjoying warm weather, being on the road seeing beautiful scenery, and watching NASCAR was a passion for him.
Every chance he could, he was riding one of his many motorcycles, logging miles with friends, as well as solo trips. Marty enjoyed camping, cooking good food, and just spending quality time with friends and family. All that know him can attest that there was nothing this man would not do for anyone: friends, family, or strangers. He had a heart of gold; an angel walking around this earth.
In 2016, he moved up to Washington to be near Kristie and family, which is when Dementia had seemed to really begin to affect his world. Time spent together was priceless, as the boys got to know their grandfather. As Dementia progressed, he moved back down to Arizona, in the sunshine he loved, into a Memory Care unit in a retirement facility in Mesa, AZ. Marty was also cared for daily by Kristie's Mom, Kathie, who also lives at the same retirement facility. She went to see him each day, brought him cookies, talked with him, and ensured he was being taken care of there. They had a very special friendship; a true "full circle" miracle and beautiful piece to this story.
Marty will also be forever remembered by his nephew, Steve, and niece, Stephanie, as well as extended family and dear friends. He truly was loved by so many.
Memorial donations in memory of Marty can be made to the Dementia Society: https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate
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