Marvin “Dale” Pollok
Marvin "Dale" Pollok, known affectionately as Dale to anyone that ever met him, passed away at home on December 11, 2023, in Williamston, Michigan, at the age of 91. Born on July 2, 1932, to the late Alton and Carol (Juderjohn) Pollok, he was destined to be a firecracker full of energy and always ready for the next adventure.
Dale was always smiling and was one of the happiest people you could ever meet. He was at his best in the barn, on the farm or working with animals. Dale shared this love with his daughter Jody and granddaughter Rachel Newsom. Dale was very athletic. He was very proud to be on the 1949 Championship undefeated Perry football team. He was also good at school and in 1951 graduated salutatorian of his class at Perry High School. During school, he was also involved in the FFA (Future Farmers of America).
After graduation, he kept playing baseball and tried his hand at boxing. He also competed with the horses in pulling competitions. His shelves are adorned with his many trophies and awards.
He was drafted into the United States Army, where he served his country. Upon returning home, he worked on the family farm, but also pursued a career at the artificial breeders and then Michigan State University veterinary clinic. He again worked with the animals.
In 1964, Dale married Sharon Jane Powers and shortly thereafter, they bought their own farm. They raised their daughter Jody and were very involved in 4-H, FFA, and the county fair. They raised Registered Polled Hereford beef cattle and later in life also acquired a barn full of Belgian draft horses. Jody and her husband, Brett, provided them the most amazing granddaughter. Rachel Elizabeth-dale Newsom, who Dale adored with every fiber of his being. She was his partner at the barn, with his projects and his best friend. He took great pleasure in watching Rachel grow, teaching her “the ways” of the farm and ultimately helping her with her 4-H projects that now fill the barn.
Both he and Sharon were active members of the Draft Horse Club, where they forged many enduring friendships. Dale and Sharon took their draft horses to the Shiawassee County Fair as surrey drivers for more than 20 years. They also took their horses to Clearview Orchard each fall and Aren’s Tree Farm each holiday season. Dale could also be seen at Northfork Farms helping out with wagon rides.
Dale will be remembered for his amazing smile and his outstanding work ethic. He spent Thanksgiving doing chores and taking care of the animals, which was right where he wanted to be. Dale's presence will forever be felt in the fields he tended, the hearts he warmed, and the family he cherished.
Memorials are suggested in Dale’s name to the Webberville FFA, C/O Webberville High School, 309 E. Grand River Ave., Webberville, MI 48892
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