Henry G. Polz

March 6, 1924 - April 30, 2013

Polz, Henry G., II, "Poppy", 89, passed peacefully at his home in New Port Richey, FL. He was born and raised in Chicago, IL and moved to Florida several decades ago. He is survived by his loving wife, Anne "Annie" LaConte-Polz. Poppy is also survived by 4 daughters, 4 sons and their families: Kathi J. Polz, Henry G. Polz, III, Victor P. Polz and Michael J. Polz (all from Illinois); Edward J. Polz from SC; Kristi A. Husenica from WI; Mary M. Polz-Kurhals from FL; and L. Heidi Lenz from HI; 17 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Hank is also survived by his nephew, Jeffrey Brown of Mexico. He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Eunice Polz; his first wife, Edeltraud VanderPloeg; his parents, Anna Margraff and Henry G. Polz; his sister, Sylvia Brown; and his brother, Victor Polz. Hank enlisted and served in the US Army during World War II and fought in the 89th Division as they traveled from Le Havre, France across Europe to the Czechoslovakian Border. the United States Holocaust Council has recognized his 89th Division for their courageous achievements in liberating Nazi Concentration Camps. After the war he remained in Europe and continued to serve by joining UNRA. He was proud of his service and had many stories to share with his family and friends. Once he returned to the United States, he was employed in several trades and was a proud 60 year member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 501. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, a volunteer fireman in Illinois, and, more recently, volunteered as Vice President and then President of a local security patrol. He enjoyed fishing and boating and was extremely pleased to share this experience with other family and friends. Hank will be remembered by all that knew him for his sharp wit, endless stories and a sense of humor that kept people smiling during the day. According to his wishes there will be no memorial service. He wanted everyone to remember him with a smile and to celebrate his life. His large family will celebrate his special life on a future date when we can all be together for his military funeral at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell. The family also wishes to recognize and thank all of Hank's excellent caregivers for many years of service and friendship. Donations in Poppy's remembrance may be made to Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. www.faupelfuneralhome.com.

Published in Chicago Tribune on May 5, 2013.