Obituary for Marie Alice Polacheck

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Marie Alice Polacheck, who left this world peacefully on January 25, 2026, at the age of 103. Born on May 9, 1922, in Racine, WI, Marie spent her life surrounded by family and friends in Milwaukee, WI.

Marie cherished her 72-year marriage to her best friend and the love of her life, Norbert "Bud" Polacheck. Together, they raised four wonderful children, creating a home filled with love and laughter. Marie found pure joy in her roles as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. She leaves behind her daughter, Darlene Lindsay; eleven grandchildren, Gary (Kari), Laura (David), Christian (Michele), Michelle (Scott), William (Terri), Greg (Kelly), James (Lisa), Susan (Patrick), Kathleen (Steven), Matthew (Laura), Amy (Steven); twenty great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts.

A business owner alongside her husband at Nuway Foods, Marie was known as a hardworking, dedicated partner who loved being by Bud's side in every endeavor. Their shared passion for life was evident in everything they did together. From spending Sundays at Pretty Lake to driving through Whitnall Park to catch a glimpse of the deer, Marie's happiest moments were spent with her family.

Marie was a woman of many talents; she loved sewing, crafting, and getting lost in a good book. Marie was a member of the women's auxiliary of the South Side Business Men's Club. Her deeply rooted faith saw her active in her church-as a greeter before Sunday service and as a worker in the soup kitchens senior center. Her apple cakes and carrot cakes were famous at the after-service coffee hours.

Notorious for her thoughtful gestures, Marie delighted in cutting out newspaper and magazine articles to share with loved ones. She was also a treasure trove of advice-whether you wanted it or not! Her warnings to family were legendary, like her granddaughter who was cautioned, "If you see an alligator, do not get out of the car!" And let's not forget her knack for providing fast food coupons that made everyone smile.

Marie was a woman who took her time, even during visits to family. Often, you'd find her folding socks or doing dishes before leaving, much to Bud's chagrin. He'd lovingly joke, "Marie Alice, I'll be waiting in the car," and sometimes, he really did wait a while!

Even after Bud passed away, Marie spoke of him as if he were still by her side, "He has caused enough trouble up there; it is time for me to see what he is up to." Now, they are together again, harmoniously reunited in the embraces of eternity.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Norbert Polacheck; her parents, Henry Bjodstrup and Viola Bjodstrup; her children, Dale, Diane, and David; her granddaughter, Jennifer; and her son-in-law, Gary Lindsay.

Funeral Visitation will be held at the funeral home, 6080 S 27th St, Milwaukee, WI, on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 4:30 - 5:30 with a Funeral Service to follow after.