John Christopher Pollina

John C. Pollina sadly passed away unexpectedly on September 29, 2022.
Born in Grosse Pointe MI to Clement and Carol Pollina, John entered the world as a light for those around him. He was one of six siblings.
John grew up loving and playing sports and still recently enjoyed a weekend round of golf. He was a natural comedian and surprisingly good singer, although he would never admit it. He was hungry for knowledge, constantly reading and listening to podcasts.
He was a devoted partner to Patti for 31 years and a wonderful father to Nikki (28) and Carly (27). John is survived by his wife, Patti; daughters Carly and Nikki; brothers Frank and Gordy and sisters Jeannie, Sally, and Amy; and many nieces and nephews. He was heavily involved in the lives of his beloved daughters (so involved that he got kicked out of their high school lacrosse games for coaching from the sidelines - maybe more than once). He was an incredible friend and brother to many. Even through his own battle with his pain and health, he was a doctor who devoted his life to healing others including countless patients, family and friends.
John enjoyed the simple pleasures in life - he loved taking his dog for a long walk, watching Sunday football, and reading a good book. He appreciated the simplicity, because he could always find deeper meaning and spiritual significance in almost any moment, including his last moments. Despite unparalleled back pain and a difficult recovery from his 6th back surgery, most of his final conversations with others included prayer, hope for the future, and surrender and acceptance to what is.
While his sudden passing has left family and friends in shock and despair, John prepared many of us for the coming difficult days with the wisdom, spiritual guidance, and love he shared throughout his life.
Family will receive friends Wednesday October 5, 2022 from 4 - 8 pm and Thursday October 6, 2022 from 1 - 8 pm at A.J. Desmond & Sons, (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, 248-549-0500.
Funeral service will be held Friday October 7, 2022 at 11 am at Kensington Community Church Chapel, 1825 E. Square Lake Rd, Troy, MI, 48085. Visitation at church begins at 10 am.
In recognition of John's heavenly reunion with his son and best friend, Koti Bear Pollina, in lieu of flowers, the family kindly encourages memorial donations to be made to the Detroit Dog Rescue (link below).
He will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved him.
- Lovingly submitted by Patti, Nikki, and Carly."