Clarence ‘Shorty’ J. Polasek, age 73, of Merrill, died peacefully on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at his home, while surrounded by his loving family and under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. He was born on February 26, 1947 to Clarence and Rose (Kottman) Polasek in Merrill. His mother survives. Shorty attended and graduated from Merrill High School and went on to bravely serve his county with the U.S. Army. Shorty worked as an over the road truck driver for most of his life, before his retirement. His true passion was old cars and rock and roll! Shorty enjoyed working on and driving old cars, ski boats and motorcycles. He was very skilled when it came to restoring them. He will be missed by all who knew him, but never forgotten.
Shorty is survived by his mother: Rose Kleinschmidt of Merrill, sisters: Linda Paulsen and Janice (Jim) Schneider, both of Merrill and Nancy Polasek of Wausau and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father: Clarence O. Polasek and sister: Marion Streeter.
Because of his love of cars, a drive-thru visitation for Shorty will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2020 from 9am to 12noon at Waid Funeral Home. Please enter the south driveway of the funeral home, coming from Highway 64. Instructions will be provided upon arriving to the funeral home. Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, all visitors must stay in their vehicle. A private family service will be held after the visitation. Rev. David Szeto will offer support to the family. Entombment will take place at the Merrill Memorial Park Mausoleum. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.