John Polen

John Richard Polen, 74, of Godfrey, Ill., died Sunday, Aug. 8, 2010, at his home.

He was born July 31, 1936, in Essex, Mo., son of the late Russell H. and Esther M. Long Polen. He and Idonna J. Bollinger were married Nov. 24, 1956, at Sedgewickville, Mo.

Polen was a meat cutter more than 40 years, retiring from Schnucks grocery store in Godfrey in 2003.

He served eight years in the National Guard.

He was a member of First Baptist Church of Godfrey. He loved the Lord and faithfully served him. He always had time to help family, friends and neighbors, even to the point of baking cookies to pass out to the postman, and visiting with electricians during the power outage several years ago, and anyone in need of good cheer. He gave us all the most valuable thing he had -- his time.

Polen was a storyteller, and we know some of the events in his life as if we had been there ourselves. He leaves a remarkable legacy to us, and God willing, we will continue it throughout our lives.

Survivors include his wife; four children, Beverly Diane Schultz and husband Bill of Alton, Ill., Michael R. Polen of Copper Canyon, Texas, Jeanna F. Polen and Philip D. Polen of Godfrey; five grandchildren, Ryne W. Schultz, Marc C. and wife Natalie Schultz, Leah D. Schultz, Teresa and husband Jason Manns, Lisa Crader; three great-grandchildren, Justin M. Crowell, Benjaman M. Schultz and Kyler S. Skjerseth; a sister, Betty L. Smith and husband Robert of Millersville; two brothers, Jeff H. Polen of Perryville, Mo., Russell Polen and wife Velma of Jackson; numerous nieces and nephews; many friends; and his faithful dog, Molly.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. until time of service at 6 p.m. Thursday at Heartland Baptist Church, 4500 Humbert Road in Alton, with the Rev. Steve Rice officiating. Burial will be private.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.

Additional information and online guest book may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.