Robert "Bob" Polglaze

1950 - 2024

Beloit, WI - Robert A. "Bob" Polglaze was born March 13, 1950, the son of Edward J. and Harriet A. (Tilley) Polglaze in Beloit.

A graduate of Beloit Public Schools in 1968, Bob was a well known athlete and inherited his father's love of sports. In high school, he earned letters in baseball, basketball, football, and track, and played a key role as a starting guard on the 1968 boys' basketball state tournament team, where he received all-tournament honors. Bob was also honored with the Reichstein Award as the school's best athlete that year. His athletic talents extended into college, where he played baseball and basketball at Prairie State Junior College in Chicago Heights.

Bob's love for sports continued throughout his life. He played recreational softball with family and friends, including many years on OMC (Bombardier) softball teams, where he worked until his retirement in 2015. Bob became an avid golfer and was a fixture at Krueger-Haskell in Beloit. Countless rounds were played with close family and friends. He had great fun on the 14th hole (Zuks pond) in particular. His presence on the course is deeply missed by many.

Bob possessed a reserved and private demeanor, preferring solitude to large crowds. He would escape unseen any large function he attended, which always amused friends and family. He was an unassuming, kind and gentle soul. A trusted confidant, he loved and supported his family, unwaveringly. The hole in our hearts will take a long time to heal. Although Bob was not an active church member, Bob loved and knew the Lord. He enjoyed summer fishing trips to Shell lake in Northern Wisconsin with family and friends. He loved frequent visits from his daughters, sons-in-law and beloved grandsons.

Bob is survived by his daughters, Rachael (Victor) Gaytan and Kristi (Brian) Grace, as well as his grandsons, Owen and Evan Grace. He is also survived by his brothers, Edward L. and Herman (Toni) Polglaze, and sister-in-law, Barbara (Jerry) Polglaze. Bob was predeceased by his parents, brother Jerry, and sister Barbara.

On Wednesday, August 7, 2024, Bob passed away at Heart to Heart Hospice in Houston, Texas, after a courageous battle with cancer. In accordance with his wishes, no formal funeral or burial service will be held. Instead, those who wish to honor Bob's memory are invited to join the family for a Celebration of Life on September 7, 2024, from 3-5 pm at The Rock in Beloit.