John Polanc, Jr.

John Polanc (72) passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 10, 2018. He joins parents, John and Josephine (Debeljak) Polanc(z); and is survived by Diane, spouse of 36 years; daughters, Carrie (Scott) Dodds and Christina Polanc; stepsons, Todd and Brent Huff; grandchildren, Alex and Gavin Bush, Josie and Jack Sisler; brothers-in-law Bob Riley and Bill Goff; sister-in-law Debbie Riley; Cleveland-area cousins; several extended family, furry animals, and so many lifelong friends. He was born December 12, 1945 in Euclid, Ohio and was a member of St. Paul Parish. He was a 1963 graduate of Euclid High School and wrestled on their prestigious wrestling team. He received his BS in Business Administration from Bowling Green University in 1967, and was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity as their treasurer. Many stories of 'house' parties and water balloon slingshots that flew from house to house on fraternity row were told over and over. He served in the U.S. Army and was a 1968-69 Viet Nam veteran as part of the 1st Infantry Div of the Big Red One. Hearing his stories made you realize the sacrifices veterans make. John was a life member of Mogadore VFW Post 8487. He retired in 2006 with 40 years service from Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., lastly in the IT department as Sr. Project Manager. After 10 yrs. of perfect attendance, he missed a day because he didn't want another award; an accomplishment unheard of these days. He played softball on the Goodyear teams. In the outfield, where he and Robert Thompkins rarely missed a ball between them, they always yelled 'No Gap Here!' He was a jokester at Christmas parties and picnics, and still has the infamous words to 'Silver Beards' near his mementoes. He enjoyed participating for Goodyear's Corporate Challenge 4x100 relay team and was referred as the road runner. Beep. Beep. He loved sports and was an avid fan of the Cleveland teams, Buckeyes, BG, Zips, and the Mogadore Wildcats. He played the part of fan in decorating Mogadore with his custom painted sheets and signs. In fact, he painted the Mogadore Stadium sign hanging above the top concession stand. One of his best Wildcat memories was taking the picture of Pender's winning field goal in the 1996 State Championship triple overtime game that is considered by many as the best football game of OHSAA history. Have you heard of Pickleball? Vero Beach FL to Tallmadge Rec, he was conquering this quest of a new style paddle and ball. Still playing racquetball but loving this new challenge. He participated in Ohio's Senior Olympics and received gold and silver medals in racquetball. Our family champion! John never was one to sit as he always had a project. He enjoyed woodworking and was building a flag table for his sports room. He constantly sprayed his lawn keeping the weeds out and beauty in. Jim Cramer was his favorite TV show as he followed the daily stock market. Reading, PBS and history channels kept him intrigued, along with current political issues. He was our computer expert and created family videos with humorous sayings. He was a Mogadore Athletic Boosters member and former member of Mogadore Lion's and Jaycees. His friendships were many--high school, college, career and community. He was your go-to guy. He loved the sunny state of Florida and spent Ohio winters there, always looking forward to blue skies and palm trees. Life was filled enjoying vacations with family and friends in his fun retirement years. He was a beloved son, husband, father, and grandfather 'Papa'. John treasured and valued family most. Franko, as he was affectionately known, will be missed deeply as our 'Road Runner' who directed us toward paths by his lessons of love, hopes and dreams. He is Forever Loved! His full life came to an end after suffering a cardiac arrest. Although CPR was quickly given his brain suffered damage too severe and God called him home. The family gratefully thanks the Mogadore Police, Fire and Rescue departments and the Summa Healthcare staff of their ER, Heart and Lung ICU as well as Palliative Care and Hospice. These teams of individuals provided the urgent care that John required . Our family urges everyone to take CPR training in your communities so hopefully you will save a life. A 'Celebration of Life' will be held Friday, October 19, 2:00-8:00 p.m. at the Russell Pry Community Center, 3857 Mogadore Rd., Mogadore. Per John's request, 'Dress casual, Sign the book, Share a beer and Enjoy food and fellowship with his family and friends as we reminisce his caring life.' Interment at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, his wish would be for donations to be made to any charitable organization that involves children.