Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
June B Poland, 92, of Dunkirk, New York, entered her eternal home on April 24, 2020. She was born December 20, 1927, in Turkey City, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Clem and Cora Best. She was preceded in death by both parents and her two brothers Ivan and Edward Best. On August 12, 1950, she wed Charlie A Poland, who preceded her as well.
She graduated from Fredonia State University with a bachelor’s degree and master’s in Musicand Education. She had a beautiful voice thatcould be heard singing Ava Maria and engaging with young children as she fostered a love of music in many throughout the years. She dutifully served as a kindergarten teacher for 29 years in Angola, New York with the A.J. Schmidt School. She retired and traveled the United States with her husband Charlie and visited 47 different states in their travel trailer over a period of 10 years. After traveling they settled in South Bend, Indiana. The life and love they created never waivered as she stayed loyal and loving to Charlie until her final breath.
She is survived by her four children Cindy Panici (Jim) in Michigan, Cheryl Beyrer (James) in Indiana, Chris Poland (Allison) in California, and Mark Poland in Florida. She is survived by 5 grandchildren, Erin Patrick (Shane), Jennifer Collins (Adam), Chris Panici (Ashley), Daniel Beyrer (Kelly), and Kaleigh Poland. She is also survived by 7 great grandchildren, Alora and Jameson Collins. Jacinda, Isabel, and James Patrick. Ryker and Miller Panici. The smile that would cross her face whenever she saw one of her grandchildren was pure happiness and earned her the moniker of G. G.
Grandma June was a member of the Saint Paul’s Bell Choir while she was a resident in the independent living community and developed many loving relationships with dear friends. Her final days were spent in the care of Christian Care Hope Harbor Memory Unit in Muskegon Michigan. Christian Care and Hospice of Michigan provided an attentive and loving atmosphere, and we are thankful for their care.
Grandma June wanted to leave us with a final message, and it was this
Afterglow by Helen Lowrie Marshall
I’d like the memory of me
to be a happy one,
I’d like to leave an afterglow,
of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo,
whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times,
and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve,
to dry before the sun.
Of happy memories that I leave,
When life is done.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign June’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com
Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.
There will be a small celebration of life for the family later this summer at Bear Lake in Muskegon, MI. If you would like to make any type of donation in the memory of June Poland, she asked that any and all donations be made to Hospice of Michigan or Christian Care Hope Harbor Memory Unit to support the beautiful work they perform.
Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
June was a member of the TOPS club I belonged to. She was a very energetic member, always willing to do her part. She adored her grandson Jaminson and was his doting GG. SORRY TO HEAR OF HER PASSING
Dear Cindy,Cheryl,Chris and Mark :I am so sorry to hear of your loss.. June never seemed to mind how much time I spent at your home growing up. She was always warm and accepting – and so talented as a piano and Kindergarten teacher. She had a long and productive life.
I am so sorry to hear of June’s death. I met her when she was my mom’s neighbor at St. Paul’s. She and my mom, Irene, became good friends, and I shared many a meal and visit with June. I loved hearing her stories of growing up in Turkey City, and of her many trips around the country with her dear husband Charlie. She also was so proud of her children and grandchildren, and had their pictures proudly displayed in her room. She gave me a pair of earrings she had made, and I think of her every time I wear them.
On behalf of my mom and family, I extend our sympathies and prayers to you all.
Jerry and I met her when she moved into St. Pauls. Such a lovely woman and she created those beautiful earrings that were loved by lots of residents. She wouldn’t take money for them. She asked us to donate to our church instead!! Jerry and I enjoyed her so much. Thank you for the opportunity to meet her and spend time with her. So gracious and a blessing. Edie Ervin, St. Pauls, 111W.