Gary J. Polakowski Sr., husband of Karen, father of Gary Jr (Kim), Stephen (Nicole), Edward III (Patty), Andrea (Benner), grandfather to Meagan, Mitchell, Zachary, Reagan, Mason, Isabella, Lila, Darby, Corinne, Caitlin, Noelle, Karmyn, Sydney, Daniel, Abby, Eddie IV, Olivia, Helen, RoseMarie and great-grandfather to Callie, Nikki, and Mikah, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2012 with his wife and children holding and rubbing him tightly.

Waiting for him in Heaven were his father Edward, mother Helen, brother Ron and sister-in-law Eddie. We imagine a game of cards is underway. Ron and he are planning their first round of golf. He's also putting his "ear to the ground" with his father-in-law Stephen, mother-in-law Dorothy, sister-in-law Dorothy and brother-in-law Fran.

Gary was born in Milwaukee on November 29, 1940. Upon finishing his college education, he served our country in the Army. Gary married Karen (Kakuk) on March 27, 1965. In 1977, they decided the best place to raise their children was in Ontonagon. Gary loved Ontonagon so much that he decided to hang up his career in court reporting early and enjoy his retirement and perfect his woodworking skills. His family and friends will miss the annual Christmas gift but will treasure the thoughtful process of each!

Gary will also be missed by his brothers Edward Jr., Ken (Shirley), Gordon, and Rick (Susan), the Kakuk family, nieces and nephews along with his chipmunks that came out every year for their feeding.

Funeral Services for Gary will be held Monday, November 5, 2012 at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Ontonagon, with Father Michael Jacobus as Celebrant. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. with Mass to at 11 a.m. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Holy Family Cemetery in Ontonagon.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to the Ontonagon County Cancer Association, the Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital Foundation or to Holy Family Catholic Church.