Jack Sharpe Polk's Obituary
Jack Sharpe Polk, 90, passed away in Gainesville, Florida in the early morning of April 26, 2024 following a brief illness. Jack was born in Homestead, Florida to parents Ephram “Jack” and Zella Sharpe Polk on August 13, 1933. He is predeceased by his parents and beloved wife, Mary Michalsky Polk. He is survived by three children–Julie Dunstan (Allen) of Jupiter, Florida; Nancy Lofton (Robert), and John Polk (Stephanie) of Homestead, Florida. Grandchildren–Matthew Lofton (Lisa) of Homestead, Florida; Christopher Lofton of Stuart, Florida; Danielle DiPietro (John) of Jupiter, Florida; Julianna Dunstan of Lexington, Kentucky; Peyton and Ethan Polk of Homestead, Florida; and Jack Polk of Seattle, Washington. He was also a proud “Great Pop Pop” to Blake Lofton and Adeline DiPietro. He is additionally survived by his sister, Margaret Weech of Gainesville, Florida as well as three nephews and two nieces.
Jack, known affectionately by his parents as “Jackie”, grew up in Homestead, Florida. He attended Homestead Senior High School and later matriculated to the University of Florida, where he pursued a degree in Pharmacy. During his time in Gainesville, Jack was an active member of the Lambda Chi Fraternity and participated in the ROTC. In Miami, Florida, he met his future wife, Mary. They were married on December 30, 1954, at the First Presbyterian Church in Homestead. Upon graduation, Jack and Mary returned to Homestead, where they raised their three children, embedding themselves deeply into the community he loved.
A pharmacist and partner at the Rexall Royal Palm Drugstore until his retirement in 2007, Jack was respected and well-liked by colleagues and customers alike. Always a step ahead technologically, Jack was a pioneer in incorporating computerization into his business. Jack also found time to pursue his passion for flying. He served with the Civil Air Patrol and traveled to various destinations on the east coast of the United States with his family.
Jack’s faith was central to his life, and he devoted himself to Christian ministry and various faith-based organizations. A member of the First Presbyterian Church, Redland Church, and later, Old Cutler Presbyterian Church, Jack was deeply involved in his spiritual community, regularly participating in church activities and serving on several committees. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him with strength and guiding his actions and interactions with others.
Jack lived a life rich with hobbies that extended beyond his professional endeavors. Jack lived a very active life, he enjoyed swimming and was an avid runner, placing third among his age division in the 5k Redland Run. He also enjoyed photography, often capturing the landscapes of Florida and destinations in which he traveled. Additionally, he skillfully photographed his wife, Mary's artwork, creating vivid, striking prints that they both delighted in sharing with others. Throughout his entire life, Jack possessed a deep appreciation for nature and especially enjoyed fishing in the tranquil waters of South Florida. He was a skilled fisherman and shared his passion for the pastime with his children and grandchildren.
In their golden years, Jack and Mary explored the world, enriching their lives with travel and adventure. Upon his retirement, Jack and Mary relocated to Gainesville, Florida and resided as founding members of Oak Hammock. In their residence, they enjoyed involvement in the Art League where they both served as members of the gallery committee, and Bible Study Group.
Above all, Jack treasured the time spent with his family. Whether on the water with a fishing pole in hand, or in the quiet refuge of his favorite chair, when Jack spoke, his children and grandchildren eagerly listened. A man of few words, those he did share were consistently informative, wise, and
often delivered with a gentle and dry humor that endeared him to all who understood. Jack Sharpe Polk leaves behind a legacy marked by dedication to hard work, wisdom, and faith. His profound impact on his family, friends, and community was immeasurable, Jack enriched the lives of all who knew him and will be deeply missed.
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