George A. Polen, 98, of Morgantown, formerly of Parkersburg, passed away Saturday, March 16, 2024.
He was born Feb. 26, 1926, in Wind Ridge, Pa., a son of the late Harry and Charlotte (Graham) Polen.
Mr. Polen was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Morgantown and retired from the United States Air Force after 26 years, reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel. Highlights of his service were time spent stationed in Greenland and Libya, and earning a master’s degree in business administration. Along with his wife, George owned and operated Arlington Personal Care Home in Parkersburg from 1977-97. A former member of the West Virginia Healthcare Association, he helped establish rules and regulations for personal care homes and assisted living facilities. He had his pilot’s license for many years and was a dedicated member of the Parkersburg Civil Air Patrol Squadron.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, from attending his sons’ sporting events in their younger years to vacationing at the beach with his grandchildren in more recent years. He was known for his incredibly strong work ethic, friendly demeanor and unrelenting willingness to help others.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joan M. Polen; sons, Geoffrey Polen of Cambridge, Ohio, Phillip Polen (Pam) of Holly Ridge, N.C., Michael Polen (Teri) of Bowling Green, Ky., and Christopher Polen (Anne) of Morgantown; 14 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and another great-grandchild due in June 2024.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one brother and four sisters.
The family would like to thank the staff at The Village at Heritage Point, Amedisys Hospice, and Monsignor Anthony Cincinnati for all their love and care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Parkersburg Civil Air Patrol Squadron, Attention W. Winter, Sqdn Cdr, 813 32nd St., Parkersburg, WV 26104.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation services have been provided. Friends and family will be received for a committal service at the West Virginia National Cemetery, 42 Veterans Memorial Lane, Grafton, at 11 a.m. Monday, April 29, with Msgr. Anthony Cincinnati, STD, officiating. Full military funeral rites will be conducted at the cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Hastings Funeral Home of Morgantown.
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