Mark Polansky

Mark John Polansky, 58, of Rochester, passed away unexpectedly, while vacationing with his family in Fl, on Thursday, April 18, 2019. Mark was born in Roseau, MN the eldest of 5 children to Eugene and Marjorie (Neppl) Polansky. During his earlier schooling years, he attended Gatzke Elementary from 1st-8th grade. When he was in 1st grade he broke his leg, which was a long journey of doctor visits, hospital stays and healing. In 1974 he started his 9th grade year at the Grygla High School, joining the football team as a Center. The new football coach could not pronounce Polansky, so he called him "Paulson." It was a name that his teammates and friends continued to call him the rest of his high school years. In 1976 he was awarded the most improved player. Mark was a 1978 graduate of Grygla High School and went on to further his education at Thief River Falls Technical College in finance and accounting and received his Bachelor degree in education from Morehead State University. On November 24, 1984, he married Marlene Kasprick. Mark wore many hats in his working career from dairy farming, foster parenting, radio broadcasting, financial advisor, teacher, and to his current job as a United States postal carrier, where he had been for the past 19 years. He had a strong faith in Christ and was very active at St. Pius X Catholic Church, where he served as a reader and usher. Mark was a fiercely devoted dad, overwhelmingly proud to show his kids off, and never ignored a request to help his kids. He was always teaching and mentoring, was a meandering storyteller with sharp one liners. Mark enjoyed fishing, and hunting with his children, friends, and other family members throughout his life. Mark was warm hearted, methodical in his work, friendly, and generous with his time for others. He liked gardening, was a farmer at heart, animal lover and a hopeful Minnesota sports fan. Above all, Mark's passion in life was his children and grandchildren. He will be forever missed. Mark is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Marlene; children, Jacquel (James) Perry, Nicole (David Harris) Polansky, Nathan Polansky, Gavin Polansky, Danielle Polansky; grandchildren, Brody, Audrina, Westan and Charlotte. Mark is also survived by his siblings, Gary (Laurie) Polansky, Cindy (Ray) Scott, Paul (Anita) Polansky, Cathy (Godfrey) Friedt; numerous nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Marjorie; maternal and paternal grandparents and his in-laws. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1315 12th Ave. NW, Rochester with Father Russell Scepaniak as celebrant. Visitation will be held 5:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, April 22, 2019 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester and one hour prior to the service at the church.