William Benjamin Polk

He presence was the highlight of our day.. an absolute delight. Fortunate to have known this fine gentleman

Ben was a great friend and colleague. He contributed greatly to the success of the Lexington Veterans Association in Fort Myers, Florida. Ben was a US Marine Corps Veteran during the time I was a Navy Veteran and he is greatly missed.

Ben was a great advocate for Operation Open Arns. His support and the amazing support of The Spring Run Charitable Foundation inspire me to this day. Polk served Our Country with dignity & respect

I just learned yesterday of Ben's passing. I met him when I was 13 and he was my swimming instructor and coach in Nebraska. We learned to swim in an old pond in Iowa where he had classes with 8 or 9 of us kids. He would drive us to local swim meets. We all idolized him. I later joined his University fraternity and would occasionally see him. Lost touch with him after I went into the Army. Even though it has been years since contact, I feel a profound grief at his leaving us.

I'm so sorry to hear of Ben's passing,
Condolances to the family. He was a
truly special friend.

It was with deep sadness that I learned of the death of dear "Mr. Ben", who brought so much joy and love and kindness to the children who attended his Story Hour at the St. Pete Beach Library. He was a blessing to all the children, parents, grandparents, and caregivers that attended his special program. My deepest condolences and sympathy to his family at this sad time....may God's Peace surround you.

Morgan and Nysha,

I just heard of your Dad's passing yesterday. I am so sincerely sorry for your loss. I have lost a very close friend.

He and your Mom were true friends to me and my entire family for 40 years. I'm so happy we recently renewed our regular contact via phone and email.

He was an inspiration to me both personally and professionally. He provided me the opportunity to do and experience things at very young age. He took a chance on me and I have never...

"Mr. Ben" will be missed by everyone at the St. Pete Beach Public Library. He has been an integral part of our library family for more than two years.
He is the STAR of our ages 3 and under Story Time. Everyone here loves him, he is so kind and so fun and just loved seeing the little ones grasp new concepts, like standing on their own, focusing on the books, learning to give him a high-five as they leave for the day.
Mr. Ben is taking a bit of our hearts with him as he continues his...

Sgt Polk was my friend and fellow Marine. Never once did he say no to any need Operation Open Arms had. Our Troops returning from combat were very important to him. My heart is so heavy. Take a look at Ben Polk in this video. A fine man and the perfect gentleman. My friend and fellow Marine. Semper Fi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sO4Tpcb4rlU