Russell Polen

Russell W. Polen, 85, of Jackson passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at his home, surrounded by family.

He was born June 23, 1938, to Russell H. and Esther Polen in Peoria, Illinois. He married Velma Parsons on May 10, 1964.

Russell retired from Crane Co. in 1991 after 26 years of service as a welder. He then went on to own and operate a self-service gas station in Marble Hill, Missouri, for several years.

Russell had many interests, including woodworking and collecting various antiques. He and Velma also ran a home day care for many years and were fondly known as Nana and Papaw to all. Russell's greatest enjoyment was the children they welcomed into their home. Russell will be remembered for his warm smile, playful winks, big hugs, joking nature, kisses, generous heart and unconditional love.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Velma Polen; children, Chris (Marilyn) Collier, Nick (Roxanne) Brown and Ashley (Jimmy) Sumner; their children; and the many "grandchildren" they cared for.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents Russell H. and Esther Polen.

Public visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, July 24, at McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

Funeral will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Chris Collier officiating. Interment will follow in Bollinger County Memorial Park Cemetery in Marble Hill.

Memorials may take the form of contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Crown Hospice.

To send an online condolence to the family, visit McCombs Funeral Home's website at www.mccombsfuneralhome.com, then click on the tribute wall tab of Russell's personal obituary.