Polly (O’Brien) Cholka walked on July 21, 2024, at the age of 88.
She was born to William O’Brien and Lavina (Davis) Thorud in La Crosse, Wisconsin, on
February 17, 1936.
Polly spent 4 years in a convent before marrying Donald Cholka, giving life to 8 children.
She attended nursing school and worked as a Community Health Nurse for many years in Black
River Falls, as well as various other positions, including working at the Dells Casino and at HCN
Health Department. Polly took pride in her artistic ability of making Native American beadwork.
She also loved the Casino Bingo Hall Atmosphere. She had a great sense of humor and lived
her life as she wanted to.
Polly will be remembered for her willingness to always lend a helping hand, and for her love of
all babies.
She is survived by her children: Harry (Veronica) Cholka, Phillip Cholka, Steve Cholka, Donald
Cholka Jr., Maureen (John) Kachnowski, Rosemarie Adams, grandchildren: Nick Cholka, Eric
Everest, Casie (Sean) Collins, Raven LaMorie, Taylor Lynn Giese (Kyle), her brothers: John
(Beth) Steindorf, Terry Steindorf, Francis Steindorf, and niece Karena (Dana) Thundercloud and
many extended family members and friends.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Lavina (Davis) Thorud, her son Joseph Cholka,
daughter Denise (Nitzie) Cholka, her sisters Elethe Nichols, Jenny Steindorf, Jan Fisher, and
her brothers Bruce O’Brien, Harry Steindorf, and Bill O’Brien.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Buswell
Funeral Home.