Robert W. Polich

Robert William Polich, 57 of Iron Mountain passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, December 17, 2015 while spear fishing on Chicagon Lake. Bob was born on September 11, 1958 in Stambaugh, Michigan, son the late John and Kathryn Phillips Polich. Bob graduated from Kingsford High School in 1976 and received a degree in Water Purification Technology from Bay De Noc Community College in 1978. Bob went on to get his certification as a Water Treatment Plant Operator that summer. In May of 1981, he graduated from Lake Superior State College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology and an associate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. In 1995, Bob received an LPN nursing degree from Bay de Noc Community College. Bob was a man of sincere faith and strengthened his faith by attending many of the Catholic churches in the area. An avid outdoorsman, Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, hockey and skiing. He appreciated unspoiled natural beauty. Shortly after Dickenson County acquired the Fumee Lake Natural Area, he replaced the roof on the old cabin and continued to work at the area. If Bob learned of a need in the community, he was quick to respond while not expecting anything in return. He made a difference in many peoples’ lives. Always ready for adventure, Bob’s travels took him to England, Peru, Panama, Costa Rica and US southern states in addition to his favorite places: the Pacific Northwest, Western Canada and Alaska. He spent several seasons as a commercial fisherman in Alaska and would frequently share his fishing stories with anyone willing to listen. Bob was an ardent follower of the Green Bay Packers and NASCAR races. He loved playing bocce at the city park. Although he had no children of his own, he patiently worked with his friends’ children to help them acquire new skills. Robert is survived by two sisters, Rosalyn Ebert of Ortonville, MI and Marion Janeshek of Peoria, AZ; nieces and nephews, Christopher Ebert of Dearborn, MI, Deanna (Gregory) Beatty of Livonia, MI, Carrie (Tom) Long of Scottsdale, AZ, and Randall Janeshek of Lexington, KY; great nieces and nephews, Morgan, Derek, Brandon, Jillian, Connor and Kaitlin; and numerous cousins. In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, John (Jack) Polich in 2008. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Carmelite Monastery and the Fumee Lake Natural Area. Memorial Service will be on Friday, June 24, 2016 11:00 AM at St. Marys Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Kingsford, MI. Fr. Michael Woempner will officiate. Condolences may be expressed to the family of Robert (Bob) Polich on line at www.ernashfuneral-homes.com.

Robert W. Polich

September 11, 1958 - December 17, 2015