William Charles Polakiewicz Sr

William Charles Polakiewicz, Sr., lovingly known to many as “Wild Bill,” of Pensacola, Florida, passed away on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the age of 76. Bill was born on October 11, 1948, in Riverhead, New York, to William Walter Polakiewicz and Helen Fabrykewicz Polakiewicz. He graduated from Riverhead High School with the Class of 1967 and soon after enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served as a weather observer for six and a half years. His patriotism remained a defining part of his life long after his military service. Following his honorable discharge, Bill made Pensacola, Florida, his permanent home. He began working as a driver for Coca-Cola and as a pre-loader for United Parcel Service (UPS). He later became a full-time UPS driver and proudly delivered packages for 30 years. Bill genuinely loved connecting with the people on his route—and had an especially soft spot for his four-legged “customers.” He often carried a bag of dog treats in his truck, delighting countless pups and earning their wagging approval wherever he went. True to his nickname, "Wild Bill" had a larger-than-life personality, especially when it came to children and celebrations. A true “big kid” at heart, Bill made every holiday and birthday a special event with his boundless energy, thoughtful surprises, and over-the-top decorations. Homemade cards—whether given or received—meant more to him than anything store-bought. A gifted carpenter and woodworker, Bill crafted many beautiful pieces over the years. One of his proudest contributions was a very large, handcrafted manger, which he donated to his church – a nativity display still cherished each Christmas season. Bill also had a deep passion for boxing and was an avid fan of local legend Roy Jones, Jr. He founded the Roy’s Ring fan club and served as its Special Events Director. His enthusiasm led him to become both a USA boxing judge and a local Mixed Martial Arts judge. Bill’s commitment to honoring veterans was unwavering. He was very active with several events honoring veterans, but he was instrumental in organizing Pensacola’s first Memorial Day parade. He worked tirelessly with the city and led the committee that made it a reality. He also played a vital role, alongside Lenny Collins, in bringing the Wall South Vietnam Veterans Memorial to Pensacola—a contribution that continues to honor veterans and their families to this day. A faithful and active member of St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church, Bill was also a member of the Legion of Mary and the Knights of Columbus. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Walter and Helen Fabrykewicz Polakiewicz, his brother, Joseph Polakiewicz and his niece Maryann Matlak. He is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Tamiko Polakiewicz; his sister Mary Ann Rausch (Ken) and brother Peter Polakiewicz; his children, William Charles Polakiewicz, Jr. (Jackie), Anna Barbee Causey (Jack), Dawn Barbee Ivey, and Richard Eugene Barbee, Jr. (Lora); his cherished grandchildren, Ashlyn Ivey, Lyle Barbee, Katelyn Barbee, Camryn Ivey, Breelyn Polakiewicz, and Jessalyn Polakiewicz; niece Kathleen Madonia and nephew Kenneth Rausch, Jr. Bill’s legacy is one of service, kindness, patriotism, and deep devotion to his family, community, and country. He will be profoundly missed, warmly remembered, and forever celebrated. A Rosary will be at 11:00 AM, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home South, recited by Richard Highland. Visitation will be from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Military Honors will be at 1:00 PM followed by a Graveside Service at Barrancas National Cemetery, NAS Pensacola, FL. Led by the Very Rev. Canon Hector R.G. Perez, STD, CSLJ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill’s memory to your charity of choice.

Tributes

William Charles Polakiewicz Sr

October 11, 1948 - April 20, 2025