Zachary M. Polaske

Zachary Matthew Polaske was born on July 25, 1985 in Kingsford, MI. He was raised in Spread Eagle, WI with his parents, Matt Polaske and Dianne O’Leske, sister Anne and brother Tom.

Zach loved living there and felt very fortunate for the childhood he had. He made several great lifelong friends and they had some epic adventures. Zach found his passion for the outdoors when he was 12. He harvested his first deer at age 14 and his first archery buck at 16. Zach’s hunting and fishing skills are admired by many. He is lovingly known as “the Douglas County Legend” due to his ability to harvest mature deer in a county that is more challenging than most.

Zach met Laura (Vake) Polaske in college and they were married in 2011. They welcomed Vivian in 2012, Mack in 2017 and Zane in 2020. Zach found his true passion in life as a dad. He loved Laura and his children fiercely and they had plans to do so much more. Zach was diagnosed with cancer shortly after Zane was born and never stopped fighting. During this time, Zach, Laura and their children were greatly supported by their community, friends and family.

Zach’s courageous battle inspired many people and he said “the best cancer is getting from me is a draw.” The draw came in the early morning hours of September 27, 2021 with Laura there holding his hand. Zach wanted to leave everyone with these words: “Take care of each other, don’t sweat the small stuff. And as for me, don’t worry about me, I’m still chasing big deer.”

Zach is forever loved, missed and cherished by his wife, Laura, and children Vivian, Mack, Zane and his hunting dog, Millie. He is also missed and cherished by his sister, Anne (Andrew) Forbes; brother, Tom Polaske; nephew, Felix Forbes; along with his in-laws Tom and Kathy Vake, Travis Vake, Kristen Vake and Adam (Paige Hanson) Vake. Zach also has many other extended family members and friends who were very important to him. Zach was preceded in death by his parents Matthew Polaske and Dianne O’Leske whom he loved and missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, October 4, 2021 at 3:30 p.m. at the Brule River Barn located at 4496 Cty Hwy H, Brule, WI 54820. Zach wanted everyone to be comfortable so please dress for the weather and if you feel inclined to wear a special shirt, camouflage or outdoor apparel, it would be appreciated.

Zach and Laura also want to extend a special “thank you” to their co-workers and bosses for their support, along with Dr. Martinelli at St. Luke’s for his exceptional care. Also, thank you to everyone who has followed our journey and supported us. We are forever thankful. #DoItForMeZP #BeLegendary

Cremation Service of Superior, 403 E Street, is assisting the family with arrangements.