Barbara Jean Polek

Barbara Jean Polek, affectionately known as Mamaw by her loving family and in her youth as Coobie, age 72, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center. Born July 23, 1953, in Kingsport, Tennessee, to Robert and Francis (Hall) Gent, Barbara lived a life defined by kindness, love, and devotion to family.

Barbara worked for many years at Meijer, where her warm personality and helpful nature touched countless lives. She was a woman of natural beauty who embraced life’s simple pleasures including grocery shopping and camping trips with family, watching Wheel of Fortune at 7 o’clock sharp, and cherishing flowers and heartfelt cards on special occasions. Her loving spirit was evident in everything she did, from Christmas shopping for the kids and passing them out on Christmas day, baking cakes for shared birthdays, to organizing sing-alongs that created treasured memories.

Known for her motherly heart, Barbara always put others first. She saw the good in everyone, stood up for those in need, and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. Her beloved grandbabies were her pride and joy, and she could never say no to them. Barbara’s playful side shone through in her love for goodies and games, her tomboy days of playing baseball and skating, and her fondness for camping adventures—especially trips to see Yogi Bear.

Lovingly stubborn and fiercely loyal, Barbara was an animal lover who adored her cats and dogs. She found joy in life’s little moments and gave endlessly to those around her. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Francis Gent, and her Son-In-Law, Paul Dana Pitzen. She is survived by her loving husband, Daniel C. Polek; her children, Dan (Eva) Polek and Shelly Pitzen; her cherished grandchildren, Justin (Brittney), Aaron, Kyle, Austin, David (Autumn), Kayla (Jack), Paul, April, and Allison; and her great-grandchildren, Shayla, Alaina, Emmitt, Braden, Heaven and Little D. She will never be forgotten.

Private services in her honor will be held at a later date and time.

Memorial contributions may be made to Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center in Barbara's memory.

To share a memory of Barbara or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.