Joseph A. Polak, of Gorge Road, died peacefully at home on Thursday, July 20, 2023.

Joe was born in Schoharie, 79 years ago, on December 24, 1943 to Frances J. (Smolarski) and John A. Polak.  He graduated from Schoharie Central School and attended SUNY Cobleskill, with his brother Jerry, before enlisting in the United States Navy, serving from 1963-1967.

Joe's life was the open road.  He worked first with Chemical Leiman in Albany, before going to work with TM Morley out of Detroit, traveling thousands of miles over the years behind the wheel of his Peterbilt Cabover.  When he wasn't on the road, Joe was happiest surrounded by his family, or playing cards and chancing his luck gambling.  Joe was also a member of the Timothy Murphy Post # 248 American Legion in Middleburgh.

Joe's family includes his sons: Steve Polak of New Smyrna Beach, Fl and Steven Smith of San Pedro, CA; his daughter: Linda Leith (Greg Van Dyke) of Middleburgh; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brothers: Jerry Polak, James Polak and Gene Polak; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.  Joe was predeceased by his wife: "Skeetz" Polak; and his brothers: Jesse Polak and John Polak.

A celebration of Joe's life will be held at a later date for family and friends. Coltrain Funeral Home, LLC of Middleburgh is honored to be caring for Joe and his family.

Memorial donations in Joe's honor are requested to the Timothy Murphy Post # 248 American Legion, PO Box 1069 Middleburgh, NY 12122

Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern New York
1003 Loudon Road, Cohoes, NY 12047