Keith Polkow

Keith Polkow, age 78 of Fredericksburg, Iowa (formerly of Volga, Iowa), peacefully passed away on July 20, 2023, at Community Memorial Hospital in Sumner following a long battle with cancer. Keith’s final days on earth were spent surrounded by his family. Family and friends are invited to greet Keith’s family as they celebrate his life on August 11, 2023 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Volga, Iowa. Keith was born on October 4, 1944, to Clarence and Arrah Lavon Polkow. He grew up in rural Clayton County, Iowa. Keith attended Central Elkader High School, graduating with the class of 1962. In high school, Keith began dating Theresa Weber. The two were married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Volga on June 26, 1965. Keith and Theresa were blessed with five children, and eight grandchildren. Keith was lovingly referred to as “Papa Bear” by his family. Keith built a successful career as a carpenter. He retired from Larson Construction. Keith was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved being outdoors, particularly with his sons, sons-in-law, and grandsons. Keith and Theresa enjoyed attending many of their children’s and grandchildren’s school and sporting events. They also enjoyed many trips visiting their children and grandchildren in Missouri, Florida, and North Carolina. Keith will be dearly missed by his family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Theresa of Fredericksburg, Iowa; one daughter, Kim Rentschler of Fredericksburg, Iowa; three sons, Kevin Polkow of Wendell, North Carolina; Kent (Sara) Polkow of Southern Pines, North Carolina; Craig Polkow of Fort Myers, Florida; one son-in-law, Matt Haight of Columbia, Missouri; grandchildren, Jenna Rentschler (Ryan Westemeyer) of Waukee, Iowa; Tanner Rentschler (Marisa Flick) of New Hampton, Iowa; Tyler Rentschler of Fredericksburg, Iowa; Parker Haight and Spencer Haight of Columbia, Missouri; Lauren Polkow, Allison Polkow, and Carson Polkow of Southern Pines, North Carolina. Keith is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Karen; daughter, Jennifer Polkow- Haight in 2021; son-in-law, Therin Rentschler in 2022; sister Karen (Erwin) Mueller; niece Penny Mueller.