Gilbert Allen Polk, a lifetime resident of Wauchula, passed away peacefully at home on July 16, 2024, at age 95. Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Etha Polk, wife Magdalena (Marlene) Kohlbecher, 5 brothers, Calvin, Cecil, Edgar, Floyd and Hubert Polk, and 2 sisters, Marie Velle and Hazel Ballou. Gilbert is survived by his three daughters, Bettina Bairley, Belinda Rolicheck and Michele Polk, his partner of 30 years, Virginia Albritton, six grandchildren, Nicholaus, Brittany, Ben, Sam, Maggie and Sophia, and 4 great-grandchildren, Grayson, Xavier, Jennifer and Dagny.

Gilbert enlisted in the US Army at age 17 and honorably served his country for 23 years, including completing two tours in Vietnam. He met and married Marlene while stationed in Germany, and all three girls were born while he served. In 1970, he retired and returned to Wauchula to raise his family. In retirement, he operated a successful family farm and enjoyed hunting and fishing with friends and family. He was never happier than when he could teach someone to fish. Gilbert strived to instill his core beliefs in his children, ensuring they grew up with a strong work ethic and honesty, integrity and service as guiding principles. He was a firm believer in the value of education and saw to it his children made their education a priority.

In the later chapter of his life, Gilbert found a true partner in Virginia Albritton, who shared his love of outdoor activities as well as his appreciation of family, friends and community. They became inseparable and their devotion to each other serves as an inspiration for many.

Gilbert lived a long and fulfilling life, surrounded by many people who loved and respected him. There will be a celebration of his life on Monday, July 22, 10 AM at the Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home, with a graveside service to follow at Paynes Creek Primitive Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Good Shepherd Hospice at chaptershealth.org, or the Alzheimer's Association at act.alz.org.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.