Robert E. Polk

Robert E. Polk, 72 of Neptune passed away on the eve of August 12th, 2025 in the comfort of his home. He was born on March 21st, 1953 in Neptune where he would spend the majority of his life. Known more commonly as "Bob", he had a close group of friends and family that would last a lifetime.

Bob graduated from Neptune High School in 1971 and began his career in computer technology shortly after. He worked in several banking institutions, primarily working with mainframes and computer equipment. His love for technology would stay with him throughout. He was an avid computer enthusiast, being incredibly proud of having "one of the first personal computers on the block." He would help many over the years with their technology challenges. He finally retired from insurance giant AIG in 2013 after 17 years there.

Bob met the love of his life, Darlene, in 1970 while they were in school together and married in 1975. They would eventually buy their family home in Neptune, where they raised two sons. Bob's hobbies included photography, woodworking, music, television and movies. He could often be found watching everything from sci-fi classics to his beloved crime drama Perry Mason. Later in life, he took a strong interest in WWII submarines and their history to honor his late father who served during that time.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert E Polk Jr and Gertrude S Polk.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years Darlene (Drout) Polk, son Brian Polk and his wife Jenn, son Jason Polk, grandson Parker, sister Linda Baxendale and brother-in-law James Baxendale, sister Carolyn DeMeritt and her husband Mark, sister-in-law Cheryl Drout and brother-in-law Robert Siedentop, sister-in-law Susan Drout and brother-in-law Reggie Drout, nieces and nephews Allison, Jeffrey, Michael, Jonathan, Gina, Jennifer, Emily, Allen, Mara, Alissa as well as many beloved cousins.

Bob's last wish was for everyone who knew of his disposition to know how hard he fought. When you think of Bob Polk, please think of a "True Fighter" who always kept his head held high and a smile on his face. He has been an exceptional inspiration to his loved ones, both in times present and times past. He will be greatly missed.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday August 22nd from 4PM – 7PM with a memorial service between 6:30PM and 7PM at Ely Funeral Home in Neptune, 3316 NJ-33, Neptune, NJ 07753. A private interment will follow at a later date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to his favorite local organization, The Monmouth County SPCA (https://monmouthcountyspca.org/support-us/donate/)