Name: Viewing for John Polio M.D.
Start: 2015-10-23T20:00:00.000Z
End: 2015-10-24T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Vincent Funeral Home - Simsbury

John Polio, MD, 62, of West Simsbury, died peacefully at home with his family on Wednesday, October 21, 2015, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a viewing service at the Vincent Funeral Home, 880 Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury, CT between 4pm and 8pm on Friday, October 23. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 265 Stratton Brook Road in West Simsbury, CT, on Saturday October 24th at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Dr. Polio's memory to Project Purple, 141 South Main Street Beacon Falls, CT 06403 (http://www.run4projectpurple.org/), or The American Liver Foundation (ALF), 127 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT 06473. Please visit Dr. Polio's "Book of Memories" at www.vincentfuneralhome.com for online condolences.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Hartford Courant on Oct. 23, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for John Polio

Sponsored by the family.

73 Entries

David Deramo

October 15, 2023

Recalling fond memories of a Caring Human Being and wonderful physician.

Ralph Perry

February 19, 2020

I was a patient of Dr. Polio's at Hartford Hospital Transplant Center, and was deeply saddened today to learn of his passing in 2015. What I came to appreciate about Dr. Polio was not only his professional excellence, but his simple kindness and genuine empathy for the humanity of his patients. Although he was much in demand and had a very full schedule, he never gave the appearance of being rushed, and always made the time to care for not only his patients, but their families as well. He not only saved my life, but was an inspiration to me, and always will be.
In gratitude,
Ralph Perry

Wanda Kirejczyk

October 15, 2019

Dr Polio was a giant amongst physicians. He will always be remembered and missed.

Wanda Kirejczyk, MD

Paul Bernstein

October 31, 2017

I just learned of the passing of Dr. Polio and am so saddened. I was a patient of his and have the most profound admiration and utmost respect for him. His calm, competent, compassionate, and caring demeanor made him a truly great doctor and a real role model for all doctors. He was an amazing man and I consider myself lucky to have been in his care.
I also lost my dear Dad to pancreatic cancer at the early age of 60, in 1993. So this news hits home in a big way. Dr Polio's family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers. Rest In Peace Dr Polio.

Marydawn Passerella

September 21, 2017

I first want to offer my condolences to Dr. Polio"s family. He was a remarkable man who was compassionate, kind and brilliant. I came to be his patient because I desperately needed a second opinion. Dr. Polio was able to figure out what was happening to me medically when numerous other doctors were not.

I will never forget the advice he gave me and the care and compassion he treated me with. He was the kind of doctor all doctors should aspire to be.

L Grant

April 13, 2017

I am at a loss for words about Dr. Polio's passing. I relocated to Florida from CT and just gave my daughter his name for a GI consultation. She then told me of his passing which she saw online. He was a gentle soul & was a true professional. Condolences to his family. May he sleep in peace....

Bridget Spath

January 20, 2017

Dr. Polio was a wonderful doctor and a wonderful man. He always treated his patients with respect and sensitivity. He was my doctor and the loss of him and to all who knew him is monumental. Rest in peace and I know you are with God.

Kim Wimberly

October 12, 2016

I'm sorry to hear of the loss of Dr. Polio. He was a wonderful man. He was my Doctor for almost 9 yrs. I had the utmost respect for him and his knowledge. He helped me cope with my illness and I will forever be grateful to him. I loved your dad's spirit and mellow personality. Praying for his family. God took his angel too soon.

Fay Rozovsky

October 11, 2016

I just learned today of Dr. Polio's passing. I am so saddened. He was a marvelous physician and an extraordinarily kind human being. May he rest in peace. My prayers and thoughts are with his family.

Katherine and Andy Scheil

July 5, 2016

My husband Andy and I were so sad to hear the news that Dr. Polio has died. He treated my husband 20 years ago for Crohn's disease, and was the kindest, most compassionate doctor imaginable. He had a very gentle touch and a confident manner, which imparted to his patients a sense of calm and security. We have not lived in New England for over a decade, but still have fond memories of Dr. Polio. Like all of his patients, we were lucky to have come into contact with such a wonderful and decent human being. RIP Dr. Polio.

May 24, 2016

I was an intern in Rochester when John was the Chief Resident. He set a great example for all of us and I tried to emulate him as I morphed into a "real doctor". I wanted to be like him...in fact, part of why I decided to become a gastroenterologist was due to his influence. I have never regretted my decision. I was shocked and deeply saddened when I recently learned of his death. We have lost a great doctor and human being. I'm sure there is a spiritual irony in the fact that he died on my birthday. My heartfelt condolences are extended to his family.
Joel Haight

Mary Ripberger

March 10, 2016

I was very saddened by this news. I was a very young pt of Dr. Polio about 12 years ago for my complicated crohns disease. No one else many doctors could not find out what was wrong with me, I was SO ill. Dr. Polio gave me my quality of life back in my 30s. We tried a medication and it worked I'm still on it today, I have had NO complications. He also did whatever he coukd to keep me out surgery, we went through a lot together. He was a GREAT doctor and a wondrful person.I have so much resoect for him.I'm blessed to have had him treat me and he will be so missed.Prayers to his family.

Kim Wimberly

November 24, 2015

I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of (Dr. Polio) your family member. He was a wonderful man. He was my Doctor for almost 9 yrs. I had the uppermost respect for him and his knowledge. He helped me cope with my illness and I will forever be grateful to him. I loved your dad's spirit and mellow personality. Praying for his family. God took his angel too soon.

Kathleen DiMartino

November 18, 2015

Dr Polio,
You saved my life and were with me throughout the many treatments with a kind & gentle voice. RIP my friend!

Ralph

November 11, 2015

I was a patient of Dr. Polio for ten years the best doctor I have ever had. He knew in five mins what my issue was and how to deal with it all the suffering i did all my life. All without an invasive procedure. I recommended him many times and it was never a bother to call and ask questions. I would always make him smile and laugh he even once said of all my patients I have you do make my day better. One time I was laid off and asked if he could give me a discount off the visit he just waived the bill. May you rest in peace and god bless your family.

Gerald Glassman

November 6, 2015

I am compelled to write again so that all should know that I witnessed the tears flowing from Dr. Polio's eyes when he hugged my wife and told her he had discovered cancer in her esophagus. He felt she would be best served having a procedure performed by another physician at Columbia Presbyterian. That surgeon told us that his work was very simple because of the outstanding work Dr. Polio had done prior to her arrival in NY. She went on to live a very productive life, seeing Dr. Polio on a continuing basis. He was always so very interested, so very caring. A wonderful, talented doctor. A wonderful friend. He was a very special person who many of us enjoyed the privilege of his services. Thank you, Dr. Polio. Your family must be so proud of the wonderful person you were. May you rest in peace.

Steve Hinckley

November 6, 2015

As a patient of Dr. Polio's for close to 20 years, I had the same great experiences with him that all the rest of his patients have shared. So, I wanted to share one particularly amusing story. Dr. Polio always asked me about my job (I am a cop) when I saw him. Well during one visit he said he had to tell me about how he had gotten pulled over late one night as he drove home from a liver disease convention. He told me all the standard questions that the officer had asked him and the good Dr. told the officer that he was just rushing home from a liver disease convention (I believe at Yale Univ.) The next question from the officer was "Have you had anything to drink tonight Sir?" At this point, Dr. Polio just started laughing (both as he was telling me the story and as he was answering the officer who had stopped him.). I probably had the same look on my face as the original officer did.....a look of confusion, thinking what is so funny? Dr. Polio finally let me in on the joke...."Steve, they kind of frown upon alcohol consumption at liver disease conventions." I have been laughing at that one ever since. As cops, we often deal with the worst members of society and ask questions accordingly. Well on that particular night, that officer was dealing with one of the best members of society. Dr. Polio, you were always there for me during my hardest times and I will never forget it. You will be missed!

Richard Pomp

November 5, 2015

He was not only my doc, but a trusted confidant and fellow sailor and outdoorsman. He always made time to swap some stories, tell a joke, and catch up with each another. I never worried about John doing a procedure, even if I were not awake for it. A man of complete integrity who exuded a quiet confidence that was contagious. You could talk about anything and everything with him, and seek his sage counsel and wisdom.

Mary

November 5, 2015

Dr. Polio was the epitome of a physician. I worked with him at St. Francis hospital in the 1990's and was also a patient of his. He was brilliant, transparent, genuine, caring with an abundance of kindness and was never too busy to say hello or lend a listening ear. He completely fulfilled the medical oath of healing. Dr. Polio and his smile and his gifts will be missed always. He is a gift to God now.
Mary, RN

Wanda Kirejczyk, MD

November 4, 2015

I had the great privilege to work with Dr Polio at St Francis hospital when I was a new physician just starting out. He was a wonderful role model and a brilliant doctor. He cared for my mother during a medical crisis and was truly one of the kindest and most compassionate physicians I have ever met. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Rochelle Butensky Du Chateau

October 30, 2015

My heartfelt sympathy to the family of
Dr. John Polio. May the support of family and friends help comfort you during this most trying time. A wonderful man, Dr. Polio will always be loved and remembered.

Rochelle Butensky Du Chateau

Don Colanton

October 30, 2015

My deepest condolences to the Polio family. John and I are the same age and as pre college teenagers, we were together a few times. Even then, I recall distinctly his aspirations to be a doctor. From his life's work, and the testimony of his patients, it is evident that he enjoyed much success and brought healing to many. May God bless.

joy starratt

October 27, 2015

There will never be another John Polio, the most caring, knowing, and wonderful physician ever. John, you will be missed and remembered with love forever.

Lynn Rappaport

October 27, 2015

Dr. Polio took excellent care of me for the 20 years since I moved to the Hartford area. He was always caring and compassionate. I had the privilege of talking to him at the UCONN medical school recently -- feel so blessed that I had that moment with him and his lovely wife. He left a legacy of caring and concern for his patients. May his family find comfort in that knowledge. My heartfelt condolences. He will be sorely missed by so many.

John Polio

October 26, 2015

May the Lord bless you and keep you John,Tony and Ellie Polio. Clearwater FL

Kenneth Bergeron

October 26, 2015

Dr. Polio,
My doctor, my friend.
without your guidance I would not
Be here to write this.
You will always be in my heart!

Your patient, your friend,
Ken Bergeron

Adelaide DeNapoli

October 26, 2015

Dear Polio Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. I am deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Polio. He took care of me and several of my family members with his expertise skill and loving and comforting approach. I often would tell him that he had the magic hands of a healer, because no matter how uncomfortable I was prior to seeing him, I felt better the moment I was in his presence or just hearing his voice. I know he is an angel in heaven who will be deeply missed by all of us who looked to him for relief and comfort.

Dorothy Cinti

October 26, 2015

Knowing John was a pleasure; working with him a privilege. He truly made our world a better place. The thought of him always will bring a smile as well as a gentle reminder of the high standard to which we can aspire.

Bette Conlon

October 25, 2015

To The Polio Family,
Thank you for sharing this wonderful & compassionate man. Because of the way he cared for and treated his patients, so many benefited.
I was fortunate to be among the privilaged that was a patient of his. I was recommended by my primary care doctor who was also his patient. He told me, "you'll never meet a better doctor or man."
Dr. Polio was one of the good guys on this Earth who "got it". Reading his obituary & the many condolences, his caring personality reached so many people. Rest assured that he has a special place in Heaven. Rest in Peace Dr. Polio, your work here is done.

October 24, 2015

I had a good visit with my oncologist this week. Three years out and all is stable, At the same visit, I learned that one of the Docs essential to my care had passed. None of us who are patients ever think of their doctors as patients. That said, Dr John Polio, my GI doctor passed away this week. Pancreatic cancer diagnosed about two years ago finally prevailed. This man personified everything that a good doctor, no an unbelievable doctor, should strive for. This great man was brilliant and yet embodied great compassion. In some of my highest moments of anxiety, he was there, sometimes almost appearing out of the ether, to offer care, instruction, and compassion. I mourn his passing and offer my sincerest condolences to this family and associates. All of us should aspire to emulate this man. Few of us ever will. God Bless you Dr Polio and God Bless your family.

October 24, 2015

My very sad condolences to a wonderful, kind and compassionate man. RIP.

BARBARA WHITE

October 24, 2015

I was so saddened to hear of Dr. Polio's passing. My late husband was a patient of his 10+ years ago and we were so grateful to have Dr. P. to guide us through a terminal diagnosis. He was kind, caring and above all, he assured us that he would make sure that my husband was kept as comfortable as humanly possible. No matter the hour and numerous questions, Dr. P. always made us feel like we were the only patients there and gave us his utmost attention. He was just the kindest guy. My heart goes out to his family and friends. I know that Dr. P. will be greeted by many grateful souls on the other side!

David Deramo

October 24, 2015

Dr. John Polio was an admired and highly respected physician and humanitarian.

His example was and remains an inspiration to colleagues and patients and those who had the privilege of serving with him.

His memory lives on.

Our sympathy and prayers to his family.

Dave and Judy Deramo

October 24, 2015

DR. Polio was a wonderful doctor and man. He was always there for my son during his liver problems and there when he past away on thanksgiving 2013.We will miss you doctor Polio. Your are in the Lords loving arms now rest in peace.
Mr&Mrs.Barrett Sr.

Geerald Glassman

October 23, 2015

The most compassionate, wonderful person to serve patients in need. I could never be able to express all the thanks for the exceptional care and the added years he gave to my wife.

Bev Schilke

October 23, 2015

As a patient of Dr. Polio's I will miss him dearly. He was the physician one could only hope they would have careing for them when needed. He will be missed and remembered for his care and smile.

October 23, 2015

Dr. Polio was one of a kind! He discovered my liver disease and from that moment on he always reassured me that everything was going to be o.k. And it has been o.k. For years, thanks to that wonderful, compassionate, and very caring doctor, I have lead a very good life. He will always hold a special place in my heart. And will be truly missed by all of his patients I'm sure. My thoughts and prayers to his family.

Most grateful for having him as my doctor,

Kathy Bloom

Nancy Antell

October 23, 2015

Love you

Love The Antell Family

Nancy Antell

October 23, 2015

For all who will miss John.. Know he is with his family in heaven

Nancy Antell

October 23, 2015

William Hogue

October 23, 2015

If we are truly lucky, it is because once in a lifetime a man like Dr. John Polio is present to us. A man of keen intellect, warm sense of humor, a twinkle in his eye and a song in his heart. Wherever he went, whomever he met, all this touched him and he kept all this close. His deep soul lives on in his family and friends and the halls of St. Francis Hospital and all those other health institutions he walked, will forever carry his footprints. God bless you Dr. John Polio, may you rest in peace; the peace and grace with which you treated all.

James Ray

October 23, 2015

I am sorry to hear the news, Dr. Polio provided great care to all of his patients and their familes, and always took the time to answer any and all of questions A great man and Physician, my condolences to his family and his friends, he will be missed.

D. Morgan

October 23, 2015

My first visit to St. Francis to see Dr. Polio was after seeing him ranked in the Connecticut Magazine as one of the TOP DOCTORS in his field. However, it became evident that he, indeed, was top notch and showed tremendous concern for his patients.

I, too, saw him twice as a patient, and several other times as the driver for people that I had referred to him.

I called his office last year to see when I was due for my next appointment (He said I didn't have to come back for 15 yrs.)and I was surprised when they informed me that he had retired.

My condolences to the family, friends, and all who will miss him. Rest in paradise.

Jennifer Cosgrove

October 23, 2015

I'm so sorry to learn of Dr. Polio's passing. He provided wonderful care to my husband, and was always took time to answer my questions in a kind and caring way. He was a special man.

Tom Hoban

October 23, 2015

John was a remarkable man and a wonderful friend. He will be sorely missed.

Lucille Evans

October 23, 2015

So sorry to hear of the passing of this wonderful Doctor who took care of my mom as best he could. Some 15yrs later I had the pleasure of meeting him again, this time for my own health issues. And low and behold he remembered my mom after all those years. I'm sure he will be missed by all, especially his family and close friends. My sympathy goes out to each and everyone of you. May he rest in peace!!

Leann Laspino

October 23, 2015

I thank the St Francis surgical team for introducing Dr. polio to my mother and I. He was a God sent to us. He and I kept my mother alive with preservation of her quality of life for as long as we could. I could not have done it without him. He always took the time to explain things to her and to listen to her. He taught me so much. No words to describe my sorrow. He will definitely be missed.

Richard White

October 23, 2015

Our hearts and prayers go out to the Polio Family. Dr. Polio was caring and compassionate top-notch doctor and person that clearly cared deeply for his patients. Our family will never forget his care during my dads illness. His bedside manner was the best I've seen and although we knew my dad was terminal, something about the way he treated him seemed to always give us hope and a positive outlook.He will never be forgotten. Again our thoughts are with you. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/nhregister/john-polio-condolences/176185105?cid=full&page=2#sthash.0Qt13EuJ.dpuf

FRANK LaCaprucia

October 23, 2015

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

tina alves

October 22, 2015

I saw DR.Polio 3 times.He was a wonderful doctor. My heart and prayers go out to his family Rest in peace DR.Polio.

Karl Insogna, MD

October 22, 2015

John was one of my interns when I was a Chief Resident at Strong Memorial Hospital in 1979. I wish I could say that I aided in his education but he was already far to bright for me to have much to do with furthering his career. I remember telling my fellow Chief Resident, Don Bordley, that the best thing I could do for John Polio was to stay out of his way. John was an amazing physician and equally importantly a warm, humble and wonderful person. When I learned he had come to Hartford to practice Gastroenterology I was thrilled to have someone I could refer my patients to, who I knew would provide the best possible care to them and who he would treat first as a fellow human being and second as a patient. I have had the privilege to train and work with many fine physicians over the past 36 years but John will always have a special and distinct place among them and in my heart.

Don Goldman

October 22, 2015

I only saw Dr Polio twice but he was an amazing doctor and a wonderful person. I wish there were more caring and dedicated people like him. My condolences to his family and friends.

October 22, 2015

Our hearts and prayers go out to the Polio Family. Dr. Polio was not only a top-notch doctor but a caring and compassionate man that clearly cared deeply for his patients. We will never forget his care during a very difficult time for my husband and I. He will never be forgotten. Again our thoughts are with you.

Sincerely,
Nancy and Wayne Simmons
Hebron, CT

October 22, 2015

My condolences to the family. Continue to rely on God during this difficult time and know that he hears prayers : Isaiah 59 : 1.

karen depray

October 22, 2015

Dr.Polio was the most caring & understanding doctor I ever had.Faced with a devastating disease,somehow he made you feel it would all be ok because he was your doctor. I still have his business card in my wallet from 2000,always kept it for good luck & yes Dr. Polio you were my rock & always will be.♡♡ Karen

Sally Mahoney

October 22, 2015

Heartfelt condolences ....I have fond memories of working beside this talented and dedicated man. He had true love for his wife and family and often spoke of them with pride. He will be missed.

Susan Horstmann

October 22, 2015

I will miss Dr. Polio deeply. He was not only my doctor, he was my friend and my confidant. I'm truly grateful for his devotion and support. My sincere sympathy goes out to his family. Know he was adored by many, but especially by me....

October 22, 2015

I had the privilege of knowing John Polio professionally and as a patient's close relative who greatly valued his care and friendship. In both capacities I have the utmost respect - we have lost a unique soul. My condolences to all.

October 22, 2015

Melanie Stanko

October 22, 2015

From the Aussie Mel and her daughter Madison

Melanie Glaister / stanko

October 22, 2015

I worked with u .. Learnt from you .. But the most blessed thing I learnt was .. Love for family when you talked about your family ... Friendship talking together with the liver walks .. But most of all you were a great bloke .. This Aussie nurse .. Mel .. You had always the time for colleagues .. Patients .. Family .. Most of all you are the most inspirational man that inspired so many .. Rest in peace .. My prayers are with you and your family .. I pray to the blessed mother Mary .. Rest my friend .

Bill and Jo Ann Hoffman

October 22, 2015

We send our prayers and sympathy to Beth Polio and family. We remember John with gracious thanks for his long friendship and career guidance for our son, Dr. Martin Hoffman, his partner in CT Gastroenterology.

Kathleen K. Hull

October 22, 2015

On behalf of the Doctors and Staff of Saint Francis GI Endoscopy Center, LLC Windsor we send our thoughts and prayers to the entire Polio Family. May your memories of the good times you all shared help you thru this difficult time.
Kathleen K. Hull - Director SFGIE

Phyllis Annunziata

October 22, 2015

I haven't seen John in a long time but I will always remember the good times that we had as children with our families. My deepest sympathy to John's mother and to all of his family.

Anthony Spinella

October 22, 2015

I have and will remember John Polio and you in my prayers. When I needed his advice he was always accessible, accurate, and practical. I will miss him.

Richard Stone

October 22, 2015

May he rest in peace