Elmer John Polich was born March 1, 1919 at Greany, MN, the son of Rok (Choppe) Polich and Genny Polich.

Elmer was a World War II veteran. He enlisted in the United States Navy in September of 1940 and served aboard the USS Maryland, USS New Jersey, USS Kota and USS Catamount. Elmer was present during the Pearl Harbor attack and loved to relate the history of it to his family. Decorations received include; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign, American Medal, American Defense Medal, Good Conduct-5 stars, Victory Medal WWII and Philippine Liberation Medal. He also received numerous Navy letters of commendation. After leaving the Navy, Elmer took a Civil Service position as a plumber for North Island Naval Air Station in San Diego and retired June 3, 1977.

On January 15, 1947, Elmer was united in marriage to Agnes Peterson.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and woodworking.

Elmer is survived by children, Gary Hofstead and wife, Gleniss, St. Louis Park, MN, Jean and husband, Larry Barelich and Dennis Polich all Seward, PA; 5 grandchildren, Kimberly Berry, wife of Brian, Donald Williams, Douglas Finley and wife, Keri, Jolene Voltagio and Curtis Gelwick and wife, Amy; 12 great grandchildren, Amanda, Matthew, Bryce, Sydney, Dustin, Laurel, Salvatore, Theresa, Brittney, Jake, Alyssa and Kaylee; sisters, Dorothy and Molly Polich, both Spokane, WA; brother, Stanley Polich, Hibbing, MN; son-in-law, Bill Williams.

He is preceded in death by wife, Agnes in 1995; daughter, Jeanette on December 3, 2005; parents; brothers, John, Rudy and Victor; and sister, Olga.