Marion Richard Polstra

Marion Richard Polstra was born in Lafayette, IN on August 15, 1933. He died of natural causes in Indianapolis, IN on August 9, 2017. He worked as a chrome plater at US Slicers, a commercial food equipment manufacturing company, which later became Berkel. After retiring from Berkel, he worked part time at Target. He is survived by his brother, Charles P. and his wife Lois Polstra. His three children are daughter, Deborah Raymond and her husband Larry; son, John Marvin Polstra and his wife Mayme Fravel; and son, Kevin Lee Polstra and his partner, Douglass Enderle. His grandchildren are Audra & Benjamin Polstra. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Jacob Polstra and Roberta Gahagan, and his brother Gerald Polstra.

Marion was a charming man with a wonderful sense of humor. Those who loved him fondly remember his jokes and witty remarks. He made and kept many friends throughout his life. His sense of humor and fun-loving spirit were never more evident than when he chrome plated railroad spikes and fashioned them into grasshoppers for family and friends. He enjoyed collecting toys, coins & stamps, and spoons from various states. He was an avid Notre Dame football fan. He relished spending time with other Deaf fellows at Indiana School for the Deaf events.

In many ways, the Indiana School for the Deaf (ISD) was Marion’s second home. In high school, he played center for the ISD football team. After graduating, he regularly participated in ISD functions such as homecomings, Parent-Teacher-Counselor Organization (PTCO) Days, class reunions, bowling outings, and potlucks. All of this contributed to Marion’s strong and proud identity as a Deaf man. He will be dearly missed.

A memorial service is being held Saturday August 26, 2017 from 1-3 p.m. at the Indiana School for the Deaf (1200 E. 42nd St., Indianapolis, IN 46205) in the Multi-Purpose Room at Raney Hall. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Indiana School for the Deaf (Attn: Cathy Covey, 1200 E. 42nd St., Indianapolis, IN 46205) in honor of Marion Polstra.

Arrangements entrusted to Flanner and Buchanan-Broad Ripple.