Merl Pollock

ROCKFORD – Merl Pollock, age 68, of Rockford passed away Thursday February 4, 2021. Merl was born in Vernon, Wisconsin on September 15, 1952 to Leonard Pollock & Arlene Dolan. He served in the US Army 7th Cavalry in Vietnam. While serving in Vietnam, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He married the love of his life, Judy, on September 26, 1974 in Freeport Illinois and lived in Rockford, where together they raised their family. He began his career at Rockford Bakery and later worked in the bakery at Highlander and Logli. He took pride in his work as a baker, always finding a way to make each recipe his own. In retirement, he worked on home improvements and enjoyed tinkering in his garage on his 1977 Corvette.

Merl is known by many for his kind disposition. A schmoozer in the line at the grocery store, everyone who crossed his path smiled. He loved people, and especially children. He teased those he cared for by giving them nicknames, from Foot, to Baby Mae, to Old Lady Paytie, to Duck. He also loved fishing, playing poker, and watching the Packers win.

He is remembered lovingly by his son, Jeff (Janell) Pollock; grandchildren, Payton, Julian and Maesyn; brothers, Orrin Skaug Jr., Mark (Frances) Skaug; beloved nephew Cody Rivera; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; dear friends Chuck & Vicki; and many other cherished friends & relatives; beloved dogs, Sadie & Peanut. He is predeceased by his wife, Judith Lynn Pollock (Rivera); son, Randon Pollock; brothers, Gary Pollock & Ronnie Skaug; father, Leonard Pollock; and mother, Arlene & Orrin J. Skaug.

Celebration of Life Memorial will be held Monday February 15, 2021 at 1:00 PM at the Christenson Funeral Home, 925 3rd Avenue, Rockford, with visitation from 11:30 AM until time of Military Honors at 1:00 PM. Cremation rites accorded. Memorials to the family.

www.rockfordfunerals.com