John LeRoy Polley

John Leroy Polley (71), of Northfield ME. passed away in his home on the evening of February 21st 2023 in the presence of his family. In the days prior to his departure he was graced by a constant influx of family and friends from the many walks of his colorful life.

Born in Albuquerque, NM. to Alice Eujene and Ralph Osborne Polley, John's travels led him from an upbringing in Machias, ME. to a tour with the United States Army involving active combat in the Vietnam war in 1972. While serving his country he was awarded such honors as the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, among others. A piece of his heart always remained there with those that did not return home.

John enjoyed an array of travel adventures from coast to coast during his young rambling years, and often regaled his children with tales of train hopping and hitchhiking his way from the west coast back to his original home in Downeast Machias. He enjoyed fishing the Allagash River, conquering the forests as a spry woodsman, and invested much of his time and efforts into the bountiful opportunities of seasonal labor of the region. His main occupational pride was his patch of blueberry land in Wesley where he sold his harvests to steady streams of Rte 9 travelers pursuing adventures of their own, or perhaps returning year after year just to see what he was up to now. An often gregarious man, holding court around a fire after a long day's work, the value of solitude was not lost on him as he also enjoyed time alone with a book or sharing the same afterwork campfire with only his St. Bernard by his side. Many evenings were also shared with his beloved wife, Karen Polley, boating in Bog Lake where they shared a cottage home which housed many get togethers of family and friends and where countless memories will remain.

John is predeceased by his wife, Karen Polley ,and parents, Alice and Ralph Polley.

He is survived by siblings Terry Polley, Sherri Frasier, and brother in law, Pearly Maclean. Children: Noelle Polley, Christie Look, Kristina Daniel, John Dray II, and Donna Dray. Grandchildren: Alexandria Preston, Alana Preston, Ashton Love, Payton Daniel, Danny Dunn, Dominique Dunn, Mckenzie Felter, Luke Crossman, Ava Dray and Evan Dray. Dear friends: Craig Calor, Geary Albee, Annie, Elaine, and Alaina Albee.

Services will be announced for late spring when weather permits.