Karel Polanka, of Fairmont, passed away Monday Dec. 14, 2020, at home of natural causes. He was born in Sveradice, Czechoslovakia on Feb. 4, 1929, the son of the late Augustine Polanka and Marie Ja’Rova. Karel was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Marta Polanka.
Karel was a machinist by trade, working at both Bradshaw Machinery as well as Swansons. He retired from Swansons in the mid 1990s. Karel and Marta came from Czechoslovakia in 1968 with their daughter, Marta, and established roots in West Virginia, which they have called home ever since. They became naturalized citizens in 1975. After retirement, Karel and Marta loved to travel and were very active with the West Virginia Beekeeper’s Association. Karel and Marta were recognized as Beekeepers of the Year in 2012 and often held bee keeping sessions at their home.
Karel is survived by a daughter, Marta Masters and her husband Steven, of Kent, Wash.; and his two grandchildren, Christopher Masters, of Washington D.C., and Kira Mowry, of North Stonington, Conn.
Due to COVID and the family’s interest in keeping everyone safe during these trying times, Karel will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Mount Zion Cemetery to spend eternity with the love of his life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the West Virginia Beekeeper’s Association: WVBA c/o Steve Roth 325 Whites Lane Wheeling, WV 26003.
Condolences:
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