James Lee Polashak, 80, of Coloma, peacefully passed away at Hanson Hospice Center on July 24, 2021.
A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 31 at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home where the family will begin receiving friends at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the North Berrien Senior Center, Caring Circle Hospice, or the Coloma Lion’s Club. Those wishing to leave an online message of remembrance may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
Jim was born Jan. 22, 1941 in Benton Harbor to Carl & June (Brandt) Polashak. He was a lifelong resident of the area and retired from Menasha Packaging Corporation. He was a national leader of the Jaycees until it disbanded. As an active member of the Coloma Lions Club for over 35 years, he served in many positions locally and at the district and state level.
After marrying the love of his life, Sherry, on June 17, 1989, he developed a lifelong love for the City of Coloma. He remained active in many civic activities including, Coloma Queen Contest, North Berrien Fire Board, North Berrien Senior Center, Glad-Peach Committee and played Santa for over 48 years. He served on the Coloma City Commission and was Mayor for 13 years before retiring in 2020.
Jim is survived by his wife of 32 years, Sherry; siblings, Larry (Helen) Polashak, and Carol (Gene) Warner; children, Jodi (Greg) Pitchford, Jim Noack Jr. and Jill Noack. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Eric (Anne Belecki) Odom, Ashley (Adam) Kaminski, James Noack III, Jessica Noack, and Zac (Julissa Stetler) Noack; great-grandchildren, Lindsay Kaminski, Aurora Noack, and Novalyn Noack; his fur babies Toto and Tubby; all his nieces, nephews, cousins, and very special friends, Sue Dahlquist, Mike Baldwin, and Bob (Marge) Moore.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his first wife Gloria Polashak, granddaughter Lindsay Noack, and fur babies Little Man and Zoey.
Jim Polashak was a wonderful man who enjoyed several past times, including traveling, cards and games, bird watching and nature, old cars, eating unique foods, and spending time with family and friends. He will be severely missed by his family, friends, and community.