Daniel Polk

Daniel James Polk

December 19, 1991 – December 8, 2021

Daniel James Polk was born December 19, 1991 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Jim and Patty Polk.  He passed away on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at the age of 29 just a few days shy of his 30th birthday. In between those two dates Daniel lived a full and rewarding life.

Throughout his life, Daniel was an avid learner, gifted with a brilliant mind. Along with band and track, he had a special love for scouting, eventually rising to the level of Eagle Scout. In 2010, Daniel graduated with honors from El Dorado High School as a National Merit Finalist. In 2014, he graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Central Arkansas, where he received a B.A. Degree in Economics with a focus in International Trade. At the time of his death, Daniel was pursuing a Masters in International Business through the University of London, and dreamed of eventually working in Southeast Asia.

From mission trips in Mexico to educational trips in Italy, Daniel was a world traveler. He traveled extensively in the U.S., both individually and with his family. He also went abroad to Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Japan. However, it was the time he spent in Vietnam from 2017-2020 when he found his great passion for Southeast Asia. While living in Da Nang, he taught English, started a tutoring business and volunteered at a local orphanage. Most importantly, he developed a love for the people and culture. Although he left during the pandemic, he kept close ties with his friends and looked forward to returning to Vietnam.

Daniel was a strong faithful Christian. Although he had a quiet personality, during his nearly 30 years he touched many lives. He never lost his love for reading and learning. He was selfless, caring and enjoyed helping others. As one of his UCA professors said, “He was such a great guy with so much life left. Smart, funny, hardworking, and treated everyone so well.”

Daniel was a devoted son and brother. He is survived by his parents Jim and Patty Polk of Benton, Arkansas; his sister Emily Sparks and husband Kyle; his brother Jonathan Polk and wife Christina; his grandfather Ted Polk; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins who meant much to him. Daniel’s memories will live on through his family and his many friends who loved him.

Services will be held Friday December 17, 2021 at 2pm  with visitation reception following at Sardis United Methodist Church in Bauxite, AR. Information about memorials in Daniel’s honor can be found at https://www.facebook.com/daniel.polk.5817.

Thank you, Daniel, for sharing your life with us!