Rev. Charles Patrick Polstra

Rev. Charles Patrick “Pat” Polstra, age 95, was welcomed home to heaven on 12/23/2025. He was born on May 22,1930 in Lafayette, Indiana, the eldest son of Clarence Jacob “Abie” Polstra and Mary Roberta Polstra Barnes.

Charles was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was raised in Northern Indiana, graduating from Winamac High School in 1948 and continuing his education at Indiana University completing his bachelor’s degree in business administration. He had the opportunity to begin working with his father selling grain testing equipment throughout the Midwest. Post World War II, he was drafted into the Army in 1953 serving his country in the South Pacific for two years. Upon returning home, there was always a love for finance which led to the beginning of his banking career.

Charles soon found that he had a different calling and entered the ministry. On a blind date set up by mutual friends, Charles was introduced to his soon-to-be wife, Lois Johnson, whom he married on June 19, 1964. They created a steadfast love, raising a family of three children instilling the values of a God-filled home.

His ministerial journey started at Scarritt College in Nashville, TN for a Master of Arts in Evangelism in 1969 and finished at Methodist Theological Seminary, Delaware, OH where he received a master’s degree in divinity in 1971. Upon graduation, the decision was made to move back to Southern Illinois to begin church appointments. He transitioned his family several times before settling into Central Illinois where he remained until his retirement.

In 1985, the biggest move was made for the family to Florida where permanent residence was established, living in both Valrico, FL and Lakeland, FL.

He had a gift of being able to teach and preach the word of God in and out of the pulpit. He was an avid reader, always found with books in hand and notes to share. He was a faithful member of Lakeland First United Methodist Church and Sunday School teacher for the Vanguard Class. Not only was he well-versed in bible scripture he had a love of trains, belonging to several train clubs and had an expansive collection of his own.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by both brothers, Gerald Paul Polstra and Marion Richard Polstra, along with his in-laws.

He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Lois; children Brian Polstra (Judy) of Tamarac, FL; Kendra Polstra of Riverview, FL; Stephen Polstra (Danielle) of Odessa, FL; and granddaughters, Amelie and Liliana of Odessa, FL; along with extended family.

Charles will be remembered for his unconditional love, compassion and quiet strength, and as a biblical scholar who never met a stranger.

A celebration of life service will be held at Lakeland First United Methodist Church on Saturday, 2/14/2026 at 11:00 AM with interment immediately following at the columbarium facing Lake Morton. (The service will be live streamed for those that cannot attend in person)

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial gifts be made in Charles’ memory to Lakeland First United Methodist Church or Bonnet Springs Park.