Debbie Polk

Deborah "Debbie" Polk passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, in Royal Oak, Michigan. Born in Hamtramck on October 28, 1952, Debbie was a trailblazing businesswoman, serving as Vice President at First Federal of Michigan, and finishing her career at Dykema as Manager of Payroll where she worked for 13 years. Her Dykema family remembers her as kind, friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile. Debbie's positivity was infectious and she made many lasting friendships that she cherished and nurtured even after her retirement. Diagnosed with MS at 40 and living with a brain tumor for 25 years, she used her situation as a reason to give back to others. Debbie frequently volunteered with the National MS Society and attended their annual walks with her daughters and friends. Always finding the special joys in life, she was an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and local news program "The Nine", and was passionate about art and live theater, especially The Lion King. She loved having fun at Detroit casinos and held a deep appreciation for Detroit and Belle Isle. A dedicated and caring friend, Debbie loved spending time finding new restaurants, trying different food, and exploring local areas with those close to her. However, she said the three things that brought her the most happiness were her daughters, their dog Takara, and meditating. She will be remembered for her humor, sharpness, kindness, and sass. Often described as a "one-of-a-kind woman," Debbie lived life on her own terms. She was known for having an eclectic group of friends spanning all ages and backgrounds, as well as her generous and accepting nature. To know Debbie was to love her. While she experienced additional health ailments later in life, Debbie was a fighter until the very end. She spent the past two years living independently at Baldwin House in Hazel Park, where she loved taking meditation classes, playing keno and bingo, pampering herself with manicures, and making new friends. Debbie is survived by her two daughters, Stefany and Elizabeth Novak, and her three sisters, Cynthia Ciesla (Bill), Margie Maladecki (Bob), and Cheryl Gawel (Gerry). She was preceded in death by her parents, Eleanor and Aloysius Szczerba, and her husbands Stanley Novak (d. 1999) and Ronald Polk (d. 2014). A visitation will be held at Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors, 705 W 11 Mile Road, in Royal Oak on Thursday, April 16 from 1-8 p.m. On Friday April 17, there will be a visitation at 10 a.m., with a service to follow at 11 at the funeral home.

Debbie Polk

October 28, 1952 - April 7, 2026