News Summary
The Smithfield community is mourning the loss of Wendy Polak, a dedicated educator and advocate who passed away unexpectedly at 72. Known for her compassion, she leaves behind a legacy of commitment to education and support for individuals with disabilities. Her impact on countless lives is remembered by friends, colleagues, and former students. Wendy’s funeral is scheduled for September 6, and her family requests donations in her memory to reflect her love for nature.
Smithfield, Rhode Island — The community is mourning the unexpected passing of Wendy Polak, a beloved educator and advocate who passed away on August 22, 2025, at the age of 72. Wendy died in the early hours at Roger Williams Medical Center, surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and commitment to education and disability services.
Born on March 30, 1953, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Wendy was the daughter of the late Harry Schwarzer and Audrey Miller Schwarzer. She is survived by her husband, Theodore “Ted” Polak, Sr., as well as three children: Heather Weesner (married to Jason), Theodore Polak Jr. (married to Tanya), and James Polak (married to Mary Ellen). Wendy also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Abby and Madelyn Weesner, Declan and Thea Polak, and Jack and Audrey Polak.
In addition to her immediate family, Wendy is survived by her brother, David Schwarzer, and sister, Lisa Krell. She was predeceased by her brother, Jerry Schwarzer.
Wendy dedicated her life to education, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to her students and the community throughout her career. She is fondly remembered for her compassion, advocacy for those with disabilities, and her remarkable sense of humor, impacting countless lives during her time as an educator. Her contributions extended far beyond the classroom, as she always advocated for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities.
The community’s response to her passing underscores the profound influence she had on the lives of so many. Friends, colleagues, and former students have shared memories that illustrate her dedication and kindness, marking her as a pillar of strength and support in the community.
Wendy’s funeral services are scheduled for September 6, 2025, at Robbins Funeral Home in North Providence, RI. Visitation for friends and family will take place from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM. The obituary detailing her life and legacy has been published online and in the Providence Journal.
The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to a forest in need in her memory, reflecting her love for nature and the environment. This gesture serves as a fitting tribute to Wendy’s deep-rooted values in fostering growth and a better world for future generations.
As Smithfield comes together to honor her memory, the impact of Wendy Polak’s life—as a loving wife, devoted mother, compassionate educator, and steadfast advocate—will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Wendy Polak Obituary
- Wikipedia: Education
- Legacy: Ellen Burns Obituary
- Google Search: Compassionate Educator
- Legacy: Lexi Spetka Obituary
- Google Scholar: Disability Advocacy
- Legacy: Crystal Vizcaino Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Impact
- Legacy: Marvin Alvarez Urzua Obituary
- Google News: Education and Disability Services
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