An inspiration to many, the legacy of Polly Schiltz will continue to bring fruits to everyone she touched and impacted.

Polly Jo Schiltz of Glenville went to heaven Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019, at the age of 65 from complications due to cancer, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born Nov. 27, 1953, in St. Paul. Polly graduated from present-day Minnesota State University with a degree in special education (teaching). She received a Masters of Education degree and various endorsements from Minnesota State University.

She married Leon Schiltz on Aug. 8, 1981, at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea, celebrating 38 years of marriage together.

Polly retired from teaching at Northwood-Kensett Community School District in Northwood in May 2018, after teaching there for 41 years. She taught special education and coached various student organizations. She was beloved by her students.

After retiring, she went back to teaching at Southwest Middle School for Albert Lea Area Schools, where she was still teaching up to her death. Polly also taught a number of college courses at Morningside College and Buena Vista University at the graduate level.

She worked at the assisted living facility REM-Woodvale in Albert Lea for over 30 years on her weekends. She spent many hours taking care of the clients, becoming a favorite with the residents and fellow co-workers. She also donated time with various community organizations, continuing to make an impact for many. She was passionate about supporting Relay for Life of Worth County and Freeborn County.

Physical fitness was a mainstay in her life. She loved to swim, walk on the Blazing Star Trail and around the towns in which she frequented, CrossFit, ride bicycles, ride horses and use a cadre of cardiovascular equipment. She spent many of her years studying, enjoying time with the family, working various odd jobs and shopping. Polly was a diehard Minnesota Twins fan with an uncanny ability to quote stats, standings and playoff potential.

Polly was an inspiration to many and hoped that her example would lead to breakthroughs in cancer treatments.

Polly is survived by her husband, Leon; son, Nick; daughter, Katie Schiltz; brothers Dan (Julie) Hiebert and James Hiebert; sister, Julie Hiebert; and many nieces and nephews.

Polly was preceded in death by father, Gareth Hiebert; and mother, Janet Hiebert.

Polly’s visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Bonnerup Funeral and Cremation Services. Her funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea. The public is graciously invited to celebrate the life of the angel who was Polly Schiltz.