Joseph Ryan Polenc Sr.

Joseph Ryan Polenc Sr.
June 28, 1987 – May 31, 2025
Joseph "Joe" Ryan Polenc Sr., 37, of Portland, OR, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2025. Born on June 28, 1987, in San Diego, California, Joe was a proud father to his beloved son, Joseph Ryan Polenc Jr.
Joe was a gifted athlete who played both baseball and football throughout his youth, including during his time at Romeoville High School, where he graduated on June 11, 2006. From an early age, Joe dreamed of serving his country in the military and being an "Army Man". That dream became a reality when he enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves in 2007. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and was deployed to Iraq in 2008 as a member of the 12B20 Combat Engineers.
He served honorably as a Sergeant and was a highly decorated soldier. His commendations include:
• Army Commendation Medal
• Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award)
• Army Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award)
• National Defense Service Medal
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
• Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star
• Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon
• Overseas Service Ribbon
• Armed Forces Reserve Medal
• Driver and Mechanic Badge
• Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB)
• Combat Action Badge (CAB)
The CIB and CAB are among the most respected recognitions of direct combat experience, underscoring Joe's bravery and commitment in active ground combat.
Joe is survived by his son Joseph Ryan Polenc, Jr.; loving parents: Joseph K. (Yvonne) Polenc and Lisa M. (Robert) Andrews; his grandparents: Joseph A. Polenc (the late Barbara) and the late Edwin and Alba Hill. He is also survived by his stepsister, Madeline Slowikowski (fiancé Michal Malec); his aunts and uncles: Anthony (Rebecca) Polenc, William (Michelle) Busby, Jonathan Hill, and Steve (Debbie) Hill; and his cousins: Ashley (Kevin) Meaux, William "Billy" Busby, Jonathan Polenc, Lucas Polenc, Vincent Polenc, Nick Hill, Andrea Hill, and Allie Hill.
A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a celebration of life at 7:00 PM, at Anderson Memorial Home, 21131 W. Renwick Rd., Plainfield, IL 60544. A private inurnment with full military honors will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.
Joe will be remembered for his courage, strength, and the deep love he had for his family, especially his son. His legacy of service and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.