Patrick J. "Pokey" Tajak passed away on March 1, 2024 in Whitmore lake, MI. He was 76 years old. He was born on October 1st, 1947 at Grace Hospital in Detroit to his parents, Emil and Carol Tajak.

Pokey graduated from Dearborn High School in 1965 and honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1967-1969. He served one combat tour in Vietnam where he earned the Bronze Star medal and Combat Infantryman's Badge. After returning to the U.S., he spent the rest of his enlistment escorting fallen service members home and did a duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

When his enlistment was finished, Pokey served as a mail carrier for 33 years, retiring in 2002. He worked diligently for the Post Office and was honored with an award for his work ethic. In 1992, he still showed up to work and walked his delivery route despite an overnight snowstorm dropping eleven inches of snow.

Following his well-earned retirement, Pokey kept himself busy through the years. He was active in Veterans organizations. He was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and U.S. Military Vets Motorcycle Club (USMVMC). He volunteered his time to help move the Michigan Veterans Memorial Wall to locations across the state and sold donated cars to support Vets in need.

Pokey loved watching sports, enjoying a cool glass of Jameson and a warm cup of Red Rose Tea, fishing, riding his motorcycle, spending time with his dog, Maggie, and spending time at his clubs. He spent time through the years hiking and camping on the Appalachian Trail by himself. He collected antiques that caught his eye, baseball cards, special pennies, and Belleek pottery.

He was an introspective man with a gentle and sensitive soul, a twinkle in his eye, and a mischievous smile. He enjoyed cooking and eating new and different foods, especially from his Polish heritage, and had a sweet tooth.

Pokey is the beloved husband of the late Edith. Loving father of Kenneth (Charlotte) Tajak and Heather (Chip) Standish. Proud grandfather of Colin, Gracie, Evan, Simon, and Oliver. Dearest brother of Cynthia (Frank) Valchine and Candy (Steve) Petrides. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Carol.