Walter Polner Obituary

Polner, Walter Walter Polner of Madison, WI, passed away on August 27, 2005, at HopiceCare Center in Madison, Wisconsin. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, on February 22, 1927, to Abraham and Bella (Goldfarb) Polner. After graduating from Brooklyn's Tilden High School at the age of sixteen, he moved to Madison to attend the University of Wisconsin. He completed a Ph.D. in economics from UW-Madison in 1948. Dr. Polner's doctoral thesis on labor economics and the American railroad system would be the foundation of an early career in academics, holding teaching and administrative positions with numerous colleges and universities, including UCLA, The University of Chicago, and DePaul University in Chicago. After serving as Industrial Relations Consultant for the American Medical Association in Chicago, Dr. Polner returned to Madison in 1960 to begin his tenure as director of research, economics, and statistics with Madison-based CUNA (Credit Union National Association) Credit Union. From 1967 to 1975, he also served as president on CUNA's board of Directors. Dr. Polner retired from CUNA in 1973 to develop his own consulting business, ASCU. As Director of Research for ASCU, his work included consulting in a VP capacity for Exchange National Bank in Chicago, numerous national and international speaking engagements, and the publication of several newsletters addressing critical issues specifically relevant to consumers, thrift institutions, and their membership. Most notable of these periodicals was First Friday, published until March of 2005. He was always a true scholar, freely sharing his knowledge and his philosophical criticisms - challenging institutions and individuals to greater achievement. His contagious thirst for knowledge, gregariousness character, kind heart, and generous, caring spirit will always be remembered. Many Madison residents and visitors may also remember Walter for his volunteerism with Art Fair on the Square, Madison Marathon, Run/Walk for Literacy, and numerous other community events. He was a frequent patron of the arts and generously supported many charities and social service organizations, including membership in the Red Cross "50 Gallon Club". Family and friends will remember the University of Wisconsin cheese they always received during the winter holiday season, reflecting the pride he continued to hold for his alma mater. Walter Polner is survived by his wife Isabelle, daughter Joan Alison Polner, son-in-law Marshall Patrick Crawford, and sister Harriet Arbett. Funeral services were held on August 29, at Cress Funeral Home, Madison, WI. Memorial gifts may be sent to the Jewish National Fund, 6270 North Port Washington Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53217 or call 800-JNF-0099. Cress Funeral Service (608) 238-3434.