Margaret I. Polchow, 78, of Milan, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026. Born on November 3, 1947, in Bushnell, Illinois, she was the cherished daughter of Delbert and Irma (Imel) Hoyle. Margaret proudly graduated from Rock Island High School, Class of 1965, and went on to dedicate 35 years of her life to the Arsenal Island, where she formed lasting friendships and made a significant impact on her colleagues.

In 1977, Margaret married her beloved husband Robert “Bob” Polchow. Together, they nurtured a loving home and were blessed with a family that brought them immense joy. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Bob; her son, Dennis (Lynn) Reid; her grandchildren, Jon, Nicholas, Benjamin, and Christopher; her sister, Brenda Cassini; and her nephews, Ryan Cassini and David (Amanda) Cassini. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Delbert and Jerry Hoyle.

A passionate gardener, Margaret found great joy in tending to her flowers and relished in the beauty of nature. Her love for travel and cross-stitching reflected her creative spirit and adventurous heart. In addition, she was an avid NASCAR fan, often sharing her enthusiasm with family and friends.

A visitation will be held in her honor at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 201 E. 4th Ave, Milan, IL, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 14, 2026, allowing family and friends to come together to celebrate her life and share treasured memories. Memorials may be made in Margaret’s name to St. Joseph’s Indian School in South Dakota (https://give.stjo.org/site/Donation).

Margaret will be fondly remembered for her kindness, her resilience, and the love she imparted to all who were fortunate to know her. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.wheelanpressly.com.