John J. Poelker

Windham, NY- John J. Poelker Sr.,89, passed away peacefully on August 31,2011 at his country home.He was born on Dec.28,1921 the son of Herman and Adelheid Poelker in Germany. He was brought to Richmond Hill ,Queens, NY at the age of 9. He is survived by his loving wife who he married on May 5,1945 Sally (nee Callahan). He was the father of Thomas (Lorraine), John Jr.(Joanna),the late James and Steven, MaryEllen,William,Robert,Timothy and Kevin Poelker. He was the grandfather of Jamie Musich,Erik ,Jordan,Jason,Aaron,Jessica,Brian,Mark,Veronica,Jennifer and Michelle Byrne. He is also the greatgrandfather of twelve. He is survived by his sister Elizabeth Lalorand he was predeceased by his brother's Herman and Joseph as well as his sister Katherine Schwind. Mr. Poelker was a retired high school administrator in the Levittown School District number five. He also was an English Literature adjunct professor at SUNY Farmingdale. He was a veteran of World War II having served in the Army. In 1979 he and his wife of 66 years ,Sally moved from Windham NY to Fort Meyers Fl. and became snowbirds. While in Florida he worked and enjoyed driving for Poelker Transportation Services and was affectionately known as the "Professor". Calling hours will be held on Sunday Sept. 4,2011 from 3-7pm at St. Theresa's Church Hall . Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday Sept.5,2011 at 11:00am at St. Theresa's Church. Interment will follow at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Ashland, NY. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the Windham Relief Fund, care of Decker Funeral Home at P.O. Box 134,Windham,NY. Online condolences may be left at www.deckerfh.com