Ronald James Pollett

Our beloved father and devoted husband Ronald James Pollett, born 21st December 1928, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones the evening of 30th June 2015 at the age of 86 in Boca Raton, FL. Our family's "rock" and pillar of strength succumbed to his ailing health resulting from an initial fall in January of this year, after having lived his long and fruitful life without any major illnesses. Ron, son of Ronald Pollett, a well-known Newfoundland folklore writer, and Caroline Gilbert, was born and grew up in Bay Ridge Brooklyn, New York, proudly served with distinction in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and held a series of leadership positions at RCA Global Communications during a 40+ year career in New York, retiring in 1986. Among many career achievements, Ron was instrumental in helping to develop the trans-Atlantic communications networks beginning in the '50s, as well as the U.S. space program's communications systems in the '60s and '70s, contributing to the success of many missions including the Apollo program and the U.S.-U.S.S.R. joint Apollo-Soyuz missions. Ron was also a 50+ year member of the Fort Hamilton American Legion Post 27, serving until his death in a number of leadership positions for several decades, including Post Commander. A devoted member of the Episcopalian faith, Ron served as senior warden for Christ Church Bay Ridge for many years. From an early childhood, Ron was interested in all things related to his parents' homeland of Newfoundland… he was the long-standing Adjutant of the N.Y chapter of the Newfoundland War Veterans, an avid stamp and coin collector, and promoter of "Newfie" traditions. In addition to his many commitments, he enjoyed spending his free time in his woodworking shop, performing various home-improvement projects, studying genealogy, and, in his later years, was fond of creating picture collages for family and friends.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Verna, his son Ron, daughter Lynn, son-in-law Tony, grandson Anthony, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones. A humble and unassuming man with a quick wit and a burning desire to learn something new every day, Ron will be remembered for his contributions to his family, community and nation… we celebrate his life and ask all who knew him to join us in remembering him with thanks, love, and prayers for his eternal peace.

Visitation will be held on Monday 6th July 6-8 pm at Gary Panoch Funeral Home in Boca Raton, FL and funeral services will be at 11am on Tuesday 7th July at The Chapel of St Andrew in Boca Raton, FL.

Professional arrangements made by Gary Panoch Funeral Home & Cremations, 6140 N Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL 33487. (561) 997-8580. www.gpanochfunerals.com