Gertrude S. Polk

Gertrude Sturm Polk, age 95, passed away on January 4, 2023, with her loving daughter and son by her side.
Born in Morristown, New Jersey, Gert was affectionately known as "Snookie" to her family and friends. She was raised in Neptune, NJ, and was a proud graduate of the Neptune High School Class of 1945. She was active as a cheerleader and was a member of the Girls Athletic Association on the Black Team. Through the years, she maintained close relationships with her former classmates, and they met regularly to "catch up."
Gert started her working career at the Avon Pavilion, making many happy memories on Washington Avenue each summer. She later worked at NJ Bell in Asbury Park, NJ before she married the love of her life, Robert E. Polk, Jr. on October 15, 1949. They raised their children in Neptune and spent time in Charlotte, North Carolina each summer with their extended family.
As a homemaker, Gert took an active role in her children's school and activities. She was a member of the Red & Black Booster Club, the Jersey Shore Women's Club, and Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Manasquan, NJ.
Gert and Bob retired to Deltona, Florida, where they enjoyed being involved with the WWII Submarine Veterans. She served as President of the Women's Auxiliary for the Central Florida Chapter, and they enjoyed taking yearly trips to the National Convention with the many friends they made through the association.
Blessed with wonderful grandchildren, some of Gert's happiest memories were attending dance recitals with her granddaughter and spending summers at Butterfly Campground with her grandsons. Her hobbies included dancing, knitting, traveling, and going to New York City to watch plays and performances. She was a dedicated member of the Jon Bon Jovi fan club and for many years could be found in the front row at his concerts. There was never a shortage of opportunities to have FUN! Gert enjoyed every friend she made and epitomized kindness, understanding, and unconditional love.
Gert was predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years, Robert E. Polk, Jr.; her parents, Gertrude (Bedell) Sturm and Ernest Sturm; and her cherished baby sister, Agnes Redaelli.
She is survived by her two sisters, Doris Fabian and Barbara Cser; her son Robert Polk and his wife Darlene; her daughter Linda Baxendale; son-in-law, James Baxendale; daughter Carolyn DeMeritt and her husband Mike.
She will be greatly missed by her six grandchildren: Brian Polk and his wife, Jennifer; Allison Baxendale and her partner, Mark Bauer; Jason Polk and his fiancé, Lori Coremin; Jeffrey Baxendale; David DeMeritt; and Mark DeMeritt. Gert is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Kira and Parker; along with her "like a granddaughter" Angela Kosh, together with numerous nieces and nephews; and last but certainly not least, her ever faithful companion pup Muffie, who meant the world to her.
Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Thursday, January 12, 2023, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Orender Family Home for Funerals, 2643 Old Bridge Road, Manasquan, NJ. Church Services will be held on Friday, January 13, 2023, at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 6 Osborn Avenue, Manasquan, NJ. Burial will take place at Monmouth Memorial Park, 4201 NJ-33, Tinton Falls, NJ, followed by a celebration of her life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 6 Osborn Avenue, Manasquan, NJ 08736. To send condolences to the family please visit www.orenderfamilyhome.net.