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Kirk Polinske, age 59, passed away on March 25, 2026. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kirk later made his home in Arizona, where he built a life full of passion, creativity, and connection.
Kirk was a talented, creative, and ambitious Digital Marketing and IT leader who held senior leadership roles for more than 20 years. Throughout his career, he was known not only for his expertise and vision, but also for his ability to adapt, grow, and continually reinvent himself. His resilience and drive inspired those who worked alongside him.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kirk truly lived life to the fullest. He loved golfing, traveling, writing, and spending time with animals—especially his beloved dogs, Nala and Makati. With his quick wit and infectious sense of humor, Kirk was often the life of the party, bringing laughter and light to every room he entered. He also had a fondness for the occasional sweater vest—worn with confidence and just the right touch of personality—much like everything else he did.
Kirk is survived by his siblings: Paul Polinske (Natalie), Dale Polinske, Michelle Sattler (John), and Laura Lane (Steve)along with many nieces, nephews, dear friends, and extended family members who will miss him deeply.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Ruth “Cookie” Polinske, and his beloved wife, Therese Zainer.
Kirk will be remembered for his warmth, humor, resilience, and the way he embraced life with compassion and heart. Now, he is teeing off in heaven—at peace and forever in our hearts.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
In accordance with his wishes, he was cremated and no formal service will take place. We encourage you to celebrate his life in your own way—spend time with loved ones, hug your fur babies, play a round of golf, or do whatever brings you peace with his passing. Please share your stories and photos below so we can all remember and honor him together.
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Scott & Donna Rummel says
To Kirk’s Family our heartfelt sympathy thoughts. Although we didn’t keep in touch through the years, I remember getting together as children and cousins ( thanks to our Parents). Another good one gone. May you find peace in the days ahead. RIP Kirk. Scott & Donna Rummel
Himanshu Jeetah says
I had the joy of working with and traveling with Kirk to India for work. We shared a lot of laughs and exhausted days running around the world. I cherish the moments when Kirk and I sat on the beach and had a beer looking over the slow life at the fishing village. Miss you Kirk.. a kind friend
Bryan Polinske says
I am so sorry for your loss. Kurt and I always had a friendly competition going when we were growing up, especially when working for my parents and their novelty business. I know how it is to lose your sibling. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your families during this difficult time. God‘s blessings.
Your cousin Bryan!!
Erica Thompson Moran says
Kirk and I worked closely together at three companies and lived in apartments next to each other in San Francisco for a year and half, where neither of us knew another person. Work wise, he was pretty much willing to follow me wherever I went and we always had each other’s backs. I had a white board at PetSmart where I kept a Kirk sweater vest running days in a row count. Kirk was fiercely loyal to me, sometimes maybe to a fault, but I truly appreciated it. He would have lost his well known patience if anybody ever gave me crap. The past year, we’d grown much closer personally and talked many times every day. It’s going to take me a while to stop trying to tell him things. My thoughts go out to all he loved.
Mohan says
I had the privilege of working with Kirk for more than four years, and I can honestly say he made our project better — not just with his expertise in IT, but with his warmth, humor, and genuine care for the people around him. He had a way of bringing energy and optimism to even the most challenging days. Kirk was the kind of manager who leaves a lasting impression, and I feel truly fortunate to have worked with him. He will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences to his family and all who loved him.
Ajay Pillagolla says
Its shocking to hear about this news.I worked under his team at bestwestern.He has always been supportive and friendly with all the inputs made by the team.May he rest in peace.