Darwin Efrain Polo

Darwin Efrain Polo, 40, of Hopatcong, New Jersey passed away peacefully on January 18th, 2025 surrounded by his beloved parents, and closest family. 

Born to Federico and Maria Polo on November 23, 1984 in New York, he spent most of his childhood years in Queens and was a 2002 graduate of Flushing High School. 

He was the youngest of the family pack, the strongest and most fearless, the most outgoing, the fastest runner, and a dare devil… first to ride a bike and first to master roller blades – he lived intensely from the start and loved breaking the rules! He loved soccer - his favorite team was Argentina, and he idolized Maradona and the OG soccer players like Pele. In his teenage years, he developed a love for fitness, the military, motorcycles, vintage cars, airplanes, loud music (salsa, Spanish rock, Iron Maiden and Motely crew – Home Sweet Home was his favorite), and movies (including Top Gun, Gladiator and any films with Arnold Schwarzenegger or Sylvester Stallone).

Darwin very proudly served in the US Air Force. After graduating Basic Military Training and technical training, he joined the 88th Aerial Port Squadron at McGuire Air Force Base, NJ. Staff Sergeant Polo was activated and deployed for the defense of the nation twice. He was stationed in Qatar with the 8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron in 2016, and during 2019-2020 he was stationed in the United Arab Emirates, attached to the 380th Expeditionary Logistics Squadron. He will be receiving Military Funeral Honors for his faithful service. 

Darwin was a hardworking man, a true “man’s man” who cherished his family, enjoyed home cooked meals and smoking cigars. He loved deeply and unconditionally; when you were embraced by Darwin, you felt his love sincerely. He had the best sense of humor, gave the best bear hugs and had the warmest smile. He loved his two dogs Maverick and Goose and enjoyed taking them for long walks around Lake Hopatcong.

He is survived by his parents, Federico and Maria, his sister Janina (Bryan), his niece Isabella, his companion Elizabeth, and a large family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who all loved him dearly. 

He is predeceased by his grandparents, Victor and Carmela Polo, Carlos and Rosa Pacurucu and his beloved dog, Maximo. 

Darwin will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all those who knew him and loved him. 

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