Royce E. Pollard

Royce Edward Pollard, a devoted and loving husband, father, grandpa, great grandpa, friend, veteran, warrior, city council member, mayor, community cheerleader, mentor, and servant leader, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 24, 2025, at the age of 85. He was born April 24, 1939, in Burlington, VT, to Stanley Arthur Pollard and Barbara Elizabeth Robare. He was married to Margaret Ann Cooper on February 12, 1965, who pre- deceased him on December 23, 2022. He grew up in the family home on Lake View Terrace, overlooking Lake Champlain in Burlington. He was a favorite of his Catholic Nun teachers at Cathedral High School; although mysteriously, during his tenure there the replacement cost for wooden rulers increased significantly. He was a gregarious young man, participating in social events and school athletic programs. (In 2001, he was inducted into the Rice Hall of Fame for both Track and Football; Cathedral H.S. became Rice Memorial Cathedral H.S. after his tenure.) He went on to College at the University of VT, where he continued playing football. After 2 years, he was invited by the Dean to find other opportunities for his educational goals. And a side note ... the University of VT no longer has a football program. After a short stint in the United States Merchant Marines, he decided to stay on dry land and he joined the United States Army, Infantry, 11Bravo. During his basic training, he was tested and offered the opportunity to become an officer. He was commissioned as a 2 nd Lieutenant of Infantry. His first assignment after Airborne School (where he claims he wasn't pushed out of the plane's door, but gently helped by a very large Senior Sergeant), was Fort Lewis, WA. It was here that he met Margaret Ann Cooper. He would be the first to tell you that without Margaret's support, encouragement and brilliant mind, he never would have been able to accomplish the things he did for his family and country. During his first tour in Vietnam, he proved himself to be an excellent soldier and was invited by the Army to participate in their new College Completion Program. Both he and Margaret moved to Tuscaloosa, AL, where he finished his College degree, majoring in History, all the while on the Dean's List (a big change from his days at the U of VT). Their first son, Royce E. Pollard Jr. was born in Tuscaloosa, AL in 1967. He was sent to Fort Benning, GA, for some additional school and training, including the Officer's Candidate Program. Their second son, William Arthur Pollard was born there in 1969. In 1970, he went on to serve another tour in Vietnam. He earned his commission as Major in Nha Trang, Vietnam. After returning home, he and Margaret spent the next 15 years moving when and where the Army ordered; Germany, Kansas, New York (twice), South Korea and Washington State. It was Vancouver, WA that would serve as his final assignment in the Army, as Commander of the Vancouver Barracks. He served 26 years, 9 months and 4 days in the U.S. Army, attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel and numerous Awards and Decorations (including the Bronze Star for Valor, Purple Heart, Expert Infantryman's Badge, and Combat Infantryman's Badge, during his time in Vietnam). He and Margaret decided to put down roots and make Vancouver their home. After he retired from the Army, he began a new adventure, which would turn into a 21 year career serving the citizens of the City of Vancouver; 7 years as a Councilmember and 14 years as the Mayor of "America's Vancouver." He served the people of Vancouver with integrity and passion. His positive attitude was contagious and he found much community support, making many strong and lasting friendships along the journey. He was surrounded with an excellent staff, a dedicated Council and an amazing City Manager and City Employees, which allowed for tremendous growth and success for the City of Vancouver. After his 21 year career with the City of Vancouver, he continued to serve our Community. He served with, for and/or on: Celebrate Freedom, Red Cross, Veteran's Organizations, Clark College as Trustee, Buffalo Soldiers and CDM. He talked the talk and walked the walk. He was a strong and vocal advocate for civic duty, serving one another, and honoring those who protect and serve our liberty, near and far. He is survived by his sons Ed (Royce Jr.) and Will, and grandchildren Royce Edward Pollard III, Dori Pollard Tadlock, Libbie Pollard and Stanley Arthur Pollard, and his younger sister, Debra Goddette, her husband Thomas Goddette, their children Matthew Goddette (nephew) and Erin Hogan (niece), as well as great granddaughters, cousins, grandnieces and grandnephews. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to HomeInstead and specifically Jim Thompson for his steadfast compassion, friendship, and care for Royce over many years. The family would also like to thank the entire amazing care team at the Hampton and Ashley Inn for their loving care for Royce in the last16 months of his life. Arrangements are in the care of Evergreen Memorial Gardens. The City of Vancouver has generously offered to arrange a Community Memorial Service, open to the public, which will be held in the Royce Pollard Community Room at the Firstenburg Community Center on April 11, 2025 from 5-6:30pm. LTC Royce E. Pollard's ashes will be laid to rest at the Fort Vancouver Military Cemetery, Vancouver, WA along with Margaret. Donations in Royce's memory may be made to the Royce and Margaret Pollard Family Veterans Scholarship, Clark College, Vancouver, WA, which was established in 2022.

Royce E. Pollard

April 24, 1939 - February 24, 2025