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Stanley Stewart Grey Polack

October 20, 2017

J3P1B0F5-20171031154057

Stanley Stewart Grey Polack

March 27, 1945 - October 20, 2017

It is with disbelief and profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Dr. Stanley Polack on October 20, 2017, after a brief illness. He passed peacefully at the Victoria General ICU with his wife and daughter by his side. Just one month ago, he was happy, healthy, fit and still working as an Ophthalmologist, a profession he loved. 

Predeceased by his parents Dr. Stanley and Frances (Shannon) Polack and his sister, Pat. Left to mourn and cherish the memories are his wife of 34 years, Jennifer, his daughter, Megan Polack (Ken Vezina) and his infant granddaughter, Siena, the new love of his life. Survived by his loving sisters Juanita Stolte (John), Vicki Burkhart (Ray), Julie Aubin (Jean) and his brother Dr. Gary Polack (Liz), brothers-in-law Allan (Theresa), Angus (Terri) and Ian (Lilla) MacDonell, as well as many nieces, nephews and their children. Stan had also become close with his son-in-law Ken's family over recent years. 

Born and raised in Sudbury, Ontario, Stan grew up fishing, waterskiing, hunting and playing hockey. He had many wonderful memories of time spent at the family cottages at Killarney and Annie Lake. Stan earned his BSc at Laurentian University in 1967, his medical degree at the University of Western Ontario in 1971 and completed his Ophthalmology training at McGill University in 1976.

He first visited Vancouver Island in the Spring of 1977. He was impressed by the mild climate, beautiful scenery and outstanding fishing. He was very fortunate to be able to join Dr. Wakelin and establish his practice in Duncan in July 1977. 

Dr. Polack was an exceptional physician. He was extremely knowledgeable and thorough in the care of his patients and enjoyed getting to know them during his 40 years of practice in the Cowichan Valley. Stan was incredibly hardworking in every aspect of his life and had a lifelong love of learning. It was his passion for his profession that inspired his daughter, Megan, to pursue Optometry as a career. He greatly enjoyed sharing his extensive knowledge of eye care with her and was so proud of her accomplishments. 

Stan spent his summers fishing at his beloved Bamfield and his winters skating at the local arenas. He was an avid Vancouver Canucks fan. Stan was also just learning how to golf and anticipated being very active during his upcoming retirement. He supported Megan's passion for horses and had recently taught her how to haul a horse trailer. He was looking forward to teaching Siena how to fish and skate. We are devastated that he will not be a part of Siena's life but hope that his amazing spirit will live on in her.  

Stan had countless friends and acquaintances. He had an infectious, outgoing personality, a positive outlook on life, a wonderful sense of humor and an always ready, beautiful smile.He had just recently been the happiest we had ever seen him when Siena was born in August. His eyes and smile lit up even more than usual whenever he was around her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Duncan Meadows Golf Course on Sunday, December 10, 2017 from 1:00-4:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Stan's memory to the Cowichan District Hospital Foundation at cdhfoundation.ca.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.sandsduncan.ca. 



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