Obituary - DR. EYTAN POLLAK

Beloved husband, father, and brother passes away at 76

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Dr. Eytan Pollak, an accomplished engineer, professor, and inventor, passed away on March 7, 2026 at the age of 76. Pollak was born in Haifa, Israel in 1949 and later moved to the United States with his wife Ruthi, where he pursued a successful career in mechanical engineering and academia. He is remembered as a loving family man, dedicated to his wife of over 50 years, his two children, and his twin sisters.

Why it matters

Pollak's life story reflects the journey of many Israeli immigrants to the United States, building successful careers while maintaining strong family ties. His achievements in engineering, academia, and as an inventor highlight the valuable contributions of such immigrants to American society.

The details

Pollak was born to Holocaust survivor Martha and tour guide Joseph in Haifa, Israel. After serving three years in the IDF, he met and married his wife Ruthi in 1974. The couple then moved to the U.S. so Pollak could pursue a doctorate in mechanical engineering at Purdue University. He went on to work at General Electric in Kentucky before relocating to Florida, where he held roles as an IRAD director at Lockheed Martin and L3 Harris, as well as a professor at the University of Central Florida. During his career, Pollak obtained 21 patents.

  • Pollak was born on July 10, 1949 in Haifa, Israel.
  • Pollak and his wife Ruthi married on October 14, 1974.
  • Pollak's first child, son Gil, was born on February 7, 1988.
  • Pollak's daughter, Karen, was born on May 8, 1996.
  • Pollak passed away on March 7, 2026 at the age of 76.

The players

Dr. Eytan Pollak

An accomplished mechanical engineer, inventor, and professor who had a successful career in the U.S. after immigrating from Israel.

Ruthi Pollak

Eytan Pollak's wife of over 50 years, who supported him throughout his career.

Gil Pollak

Eytan and Ruthi's son, who shared his father's interests in soccer, basketball, and medical robotics.

Karen Pollak

Eytan and Ruthi's daughter, who followed her own path and currently works as a litigation paralegal.

Ronit and Yael

Eytan's twin sisters, with whom he maintained a close relationship throughout his life.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The last words he said to her before he died, was that he loved her.”

— Ruthi Pollak, Eytan's wife

The takeaway

Eytan Pollak's life story exemplifies the American immigrant experience, where individuals from diverse backgrounds can achieve remarkable success through hard work, innovation, and strong family ties. His legacy as an engineer, professor, and devoted family man will continue to inspire others.