Ernest Pollara, Sr.

Ernest J. Pollara Sr., 89, of Conway, formerly of Caldwell, NJ, died Monday, April 9, 2012. Born in Lodi, Mr. Pollara was a lifelong resident of Caldwell and moved to Conway in 2006. Mr. Pollara was a graduate of Grover Cleveland High School, Caldwell, Class of 1940.

Mr. Pollara served in the United States Navy during World War II. He was stationed in the South Pacific and European Theater on the aircraft carriers USS Antietam, USS Bogue and USS Hancock. He received the Presidential Unit Citation for his service on the USS Bogue in 1946 and also received the Victory Medal, American Theater, European Theater and Asiatic-Pacific Theater Medals.

Mr. Pollara worked for ITT labs in Clifton, NJ for 24 years. He then continued his career in the Research and Development Department at Picatinny Arsenal in Dover, NJ for 20 years before retiring in 1983.

For 50 years, Mr. Pollara was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Caldwell Council #2561. He was a dedicated 4th Degree Knight, who served as Grand Knight and Treasurer during that time. During the past 6 years, Mr. Pollara was an associate member of the Conway Knights of Columbus Council.

Mr. Pollara also served as a member of the Caldwell Planning Board. He was on the Caldwell Senior Citizens Advisory Board and instrumental starting the Senior Transportation Program in the Caldwells.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 65 Years, Clara (nee Wray); loving daughter, Elaine Pollara; loving son, Ernest J. Pollara Jr. and his wife Jeannie; four cherished grandchildren, Pamela Pollara and her husband Veysel Ak, Andrew Pollara, Lori Pollara and Anthony Pollara; and his great-granddaughter, Katie Ak. He was predeceased by his brothers, Ralph, Sebastian "Bat", and Arthur Pollara.

A memorial service will be celebrated on Saturday, April 14, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Mountain Church in North Conway. Arrangements are by the Dancy Funeral Home in Caldwell.