Steven E. Polodna

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Steven “Steve” Eugene Polodna, age 71, who departed this world on Monday, July 15, 2024, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Born in Toledo, Ohio, to Barbara and Eugene Polodna, Steve was the fourth of six children in a loving family.

Steve attended Bedford High School and graduated from Start High School. An avid reader, he had a lifelong passion for science fiction and comic strips. His love for comedy was a defining trait, one that brought joy to his loved ones and played a significant role in his meeting his beloved wife, Leigh Middaugh-Polodna, in 1979. They married in 1980, sharing forty-four devoted years together.

Steve was a skilled handyman who worked at Jacobson’s Stores, known for his talent in repair work. His green thumb was evident in the lush garden he cultivated, filled with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Steve’s love for dogs was well-known, and he was a proud owner of two dogs, Iris and Diamond.

A teller of jokes and a lover of comedy, Steve shared his humor widely and openly, bringing smiles to many faces. His legacy of love and laughter will be cherished by his wife, Leigh; his daughters, Carol Jackson and Wendy Morgan; his grandchildren, Timothy Jackson, Nathaniel Lee Jackson Jr., Alyssa and Fernando Cavallo, Lorelai Morgan, and Ian Morgan; his sisters, Katherine Durbin and Elizabeth Durham; and his many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Steve was preceded in death by his son, Ian Ronald Polodna; sisters, Susan Little and Sherrie Zeller; and brother, Robert “Bob” Polodna.

A celebration of Steve’s life will take place August 17, 2024, from 2-5 pm at the Joseph Dean post of the American Legion 5580 Centennial Rd. Sylvania, 43560. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Humane Society or any animal rescue center, honoring Steve’s love for animals.

Steve’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His humor, kindness, and devotion to his family will be deeply missed.