Feb. 6, 1948 – Nov. 28, 2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Bernie Poloz, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, who passed away on Nov. 28, 2024, at the High Prairie Hospital, at the age of 76 years.
Born in Edmonton, Alta., on Feb. 6, 1948, Bernie was the son of Michael and Hilda (Marx) Poloz.
He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Marian, and his nephew, Jay.
Bernie is survived by his wife Laura (Lochhead), children Sunny and Jake, as well as siblings Bettye Marx, Arthur Poloz (children Iris and John), Gary Poloz (children Blair and Braden), Joyce Poloz (children Leanne and Michael), niece Sandra, and his nephew Jesse Smith and family. He will also be lovingly remembered by his extended family, and numerous friends.
Bernie spent his childhood in High Prairie, where he worked on the family farm alongside his wife, Laura. They raised their children, Sunny and Jake, while building a life filled with love, laughter, and clean living.
Over the years, Bernie’s passion for sports became a defining part of who he was. He played on the Playboys fastball team and loved curling, participating in the mixed and men’s provincial playdowns multiple times. He cherished the friendships he made through these activities, and while curling was his main focus, he would never miss an opportunity to stop at a casino during his travels.
Bernie’s love for sports extended beyond the field and rink. He was an avid golfer, ball player, and enjoyed many games including crokinole, crib, poker, and bocce ball. He had a particular fondness for hockey, often driving through snowstorms to attend a game, a true testament to his commitment and love for the sport.
One of Bernie’s greatest joys was his time spent on his trapline. He was a skilled trapper and enjoyed the solitude and beauty of the Wabasca River, where he spent many days with his lifelong friend, David Cox. Bernie treasured the quiet moments spent in nature and often called his cousins Joe Killeen and David Marx to share stories from his trapline.
His love for the land extended to the care he gave his cattle, always making sure they were looked after, even during challenging times.
In addition to his love for the outdoors, Bernie had a deep appreciation for the arts. He loved watching theatre, dance, and musical performances, often attending events to support his children in their dance endeavours. He also had a special place in his heart for the simple pleasure of a movie night, always enjoying a hot, buttery bucket of popcorn.
Bernie’s caring nature extended to his family, friends, and animals. His sense of responsibility and compassion for others was evident in everything he did. He once made the difficult decision to pay for a C-section for a cow, even when it was not financially sound, simply because he believed the animal deserved a chance to live.
In early 2024, Bernie was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer. Despite the challenges, he continued to care for his farm and his animals. He calved his cows in the spring, made hay in the summer, and worked tirelessly through the fall, even as his health began to decline. Bernie’s strength, resilience and love for life remained evident until the very end.
Bernie will be remembered as a kind, generous, and soft-spoken man who always advocated for others. He was well-liked and respected by those who knew him, and his quiet yet strong voice will be missed. Bernie believed in seeing both sides of every issue and was never quick to take sides. His wisdom and gentle spirit will leave lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate Bernie’s life in the summer. Details will be announced at a later time.
Bernie’s legacy of kindness, humour, and unwavering dedication to his family and community will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.