Eugene “Gene” D Polzin, 91, Medford, passed away November 3, 2019 at UW Hospital in Madison. He was born on April 4, 1928 in Big Falls, WI the son of Harvey and Hattie (Rambo) Polzin. He grew up in Plainfield, WI, confirmed at the United Methodist Church and continued his education at UW Stevens Point and received his master’s degree at UW Madison. He was an All-State basketball player and State Champ in the pole vault. Gene taught High School math in Shawano and Janesville. He met his loving wife, Bonnie Kalepp, while teaching together at Shawano. He would say that their first date was at Rib Mountain Ski Hill where he fell head over heels for her. They married on June 15, 1956 at St. Peters Lutheran Church in Dorchester, WI. After retiring from teaching in Janesville, they moved to Medford, WI to be near Bonnie’s family. There he also worked for the City of Medford as a home inspector and did home and electrical work for many friends, church and family.
He had many other talents and hobbies; woodworking, hunting, golfing, softball. Gene and Bonnie loved to travel, dance, downhill ski and spent many winters together in South Texas during their 63 years of marriage. He was very active in his church, Trinity Lutheran of Medford. He was often found singing bass in the choir, helping with the building projects, and enjoying every minute by working with and getting to know his fellow parishioners. His faith was as strong as his firm handshake. But his most treasured moments were spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife, Bonnie; three children, Eric (Marcy) Polzin of Janesville, Greg Polzin of Fitchburg and Lisa (Sean) Whinnery of Middleton; one brother Doug (Anita) Polzin of Plover; four grandchildren Joshua, Gera, Aidan (Rosie) and Declan; two great grandchildren, Noah and Alana, and many nieces, nephews and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters Ruth, Rosemary, Carol and one brother John.
Funeral services will be at 11 AM on Friday, November 8 at Trinity Lutheran Church, W5334 Dassow Ave, Medford WI with Rev. Gary Ludholz officiating. Visitation will be from 9 AM until the time of services at the church that same day. Interment of his cremated remains will take place at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.
