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Polaske, Robert

Robert James Polaske passed away on Saturday, December 24, 2022, at the age of 94 at Willow Lane Assisted Living in Appleton, WI.

Bob was born in New London, WI on November 16, 1928. He is the son of Leonard and Mary (Rohan) Polaske. Bob had two brothers, Clement and Leon, and one sister Katherine.

Bob attended Most Precious Blood School and graduated in 1947 from New London High School.

In September of 1947, Bob went to work for the AT&T Phone Company. He was an installation and repair technician and worked there for 36 years before retiring.

Bob served in the United States Army from 1950-1952 on active duty and from 1952-1982 in the reserves. He took great pride in serving his country and received one of the highest honors; Command Sergeant Major.

Bob was a lifelong resident of New London and loved his community very much. He founded the Heritage Historical village in New London. He was President for 32 years and a hands on contributor. He purchased the locomotive and yellow caboose as well as other memorabilia for the Village.

Bob was a devoted Catholic and dedicated member of the MPB Catholic Church. He was a Mass Server for funerals for over 30 years. He was also a volunteer on the New London Police and Fire Commission for 44 years as well as an active member of several organizations including the VFW, American Legion, and the Knights of Columbus. Bob had a true love for trains. He enjoyed several Amtrak trips. One of his fondest memories was the Old Glory Honor Flight trip that he took to Washington D.C. in 2013.

Bob is survived by his niece Debbie Guckert and his nephews Neil Polaske, Mark Mann, and Christopher Mann. He is also survived by his dear friends Dave Neuman and Jodi Brennan and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, sister, niece Mary Ellen Mann, and nephews Michael Mann and Matthew Mann.

A Knights of Columbus service will be held at 10:45 a.m. with the Funeral Mass for Bob to follow at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, New London with Fr. John Kleinschmidt officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. The burial will be in the parish cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special than you to all of the wonderful nurses, doctors, and caretakers at St. Elizabeth Hospital 4th Floor Tower in Appleton, Ascension New London, Willow Lane Assisted Living in Appleton and ProMedica Hospice for keeping Bob comfortable these last few weeks. A special thank you to Father John for his continued visits throughout Bob’s sickness. Lastly, thank you to all who sent cards, called, or visited Bob these past few months.

Bob will be greatly missed.

“Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:23)

Cline & Hanson Funeral Home
209 W. Cook St. PO BOX 119
New London WI 54961
920-982-3232 – www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com

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