Michael John Pollack, I, 73, of Sanford, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House in Scarborough, surrounded by love.
Mike was born on April 15, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, to John and Norma (Faraoni) Pollack. He grew up in Detroit and attended local schools, graduating from Redford Union High School in 1970. From a young age, Mike embraced life as an adventure, valuing friendships, human connection, and new experiences. In his early adulthood, he lived between Texas and Florida, building relationships and stories that would shape his generous spirit.
After facing and overcoming early life struggles, Mike chose a path of compassion and service. He entered rehabilitation and went on to become a counselor for abused and neglected children, dedicating himself to helping others find hope and healing. This deep empathy remained a defining trait throughout his life.
In 1982, Mike met the love of his life, Sandra Melanson, in Skowhegan, Maine. They married in 1987 and shared 38 years of marriage, raising two children and building a life rooted in family, music, and community. That same year, Mike opened Mike’s Music in Sanford, a place that became far more than a store—it was a gathering space, a sanctuary for music lovers, and a reflection of Mike himself. He owned and operated the shop with pride and joy until his retirement in 2019.
Mike lived by his store’s motto, “Everything you do is Music,” and he embodied it fully. A walking encyclopedia of musical knowledge, he delighted in sharing stories, recommendations, and memories with anyone who walked through the door. He especially loved organizing and restoring his extensive vinyl collection, carefully reconditioning album covers and hunting for hidden treasures at flea markets. His musical passions were deep. He enjoyed numerous concerts over the years and had a special love for Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Led Zeppelin, and the legendary artists of that era.
Beyond music, Mike enjoyed fishing and going anywhere he could connect with people and strike up a conversation. He had a big heart and an even bigger presence—friendly, outgoing, and endlessly kind. He saw the good in everyone, was always willing to listen, and offered advice with warmth and humor. Often described as a big teddy bear, Mike was playful, lighthearted, and deeply loving. He adored children, held his godchildren especially close to his heart, and cherished the many friends he considered family.
Mike was open-minded and loved thinking outside the box. He found joy in watching shows about aliens, Bigfoot, and supernatural phenomena, always curious and entertained by the mysteries of the world. At the center of his life were his family and his music—the two great loves that defined who he was.
Mike will be remembered for his warm smile, infectious laugh, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion as a husband, father, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was predeceased by his sister, Kelly Estep.
Surviving are his beloved wife, Sandra Pollack of Sanford; his two children, Sarah Pollack of Winter Park, Florida, and Michael Pollack II of Sanford; his dog and faithful companion, Rukia; his sisters, Cheryl Miller of Brighton, Michigan, and Cynthia Smith and her husband Lloyd of Commerce, Michigan; along with several nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at a date and time to be determined.
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Will miss Mike immensely. I’ve visited him every summer to buy records and talk music since I was 11 years old! He was truly one of a kind and will be sorely missed by all who knew him. He was truly a character I will never forget. Sending love and condolences to the family. ❤️
R.I.P. Brother , God Bless you and your family. My deepest condolences. 🙏🙏🙏
Everything you do is music.
Play on drummer
Love always
Captain Corey
Such a dear sweet man, in 2017 when my hubby Norman Skillings was on hospice his most favorite thing to do was visit Mike at his shop, Mike would come to the car, gather my husband pick him up and carry him into his shop. They would visit for hours, TY Mike.and we will see u both again in HEAVEN!!!
My condolences to Mike’s family.
When I tried to sell my vinyl collection, Mike first said “no I don’t think so.” 3 days later he called back “Did you say you had “The Merm?.” 1940’s? . Decca and everything going forward. “I’m reconsidering, bring me your collection.” Mike enjoyed the search, he was excited flipping through the milk cartons. As I was when I searched for them during the years. Flipping hundreds of vinyl albums in the record stores was time well spent and enjoyed.
Thanks Mike!
Peace Mike and family,my father and I always enjoyed the conversations we had with you during the 40 years we knew you,Have fun rocking in the sun,until we meet again ,peace to you old friend- Bill Lamotte
Whenever I had the privilege of sharing time with you at your store, you were always filled with joy and kindness. Sending love to everyone who will miss this wonderful man.
Thank you for everything, Brother! Playing Sir Lord Baltimore’s Kingdom Come for you as I type this. Though we hadn’t seen each other in a while, I think of your musical enthusiasm often. Inspiring stuff. Thanks for hipping me to Hawkwind, Lonesome Crow era Scorps and so much more. Rest easy.
My deepest condolences to the family and to friends. ❤️ David
I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting you, but I’ve been fortunate enough to witness the love, strength, and kindness of your family, especially Sarah who is such a light in my life. Your presence will always be felt through them and you’ll live indefinitely in their hearts. May you rest in
My deepest condolences to you and your family. I knew Mike for a long time. He was good friends with my father Rick when he was alive. He use to bring me to the store with my siblings when I was younger. I always use to come by there after my dad passed with my children. I always had conversations with him. I will miss those but will cherish them dearly. He was a great guy and will be missed by everyone. I’ll be thinking of you all and sending many prayers. Wish I could be there but I live out of state but I will be thinking of you all.
Mike you are still my Brother and my friend. The distance between you and us is only for a season.
We will meet you again in God’s home , Peace.
Sandy, Sarah and Mikey you all are in my prayers.
LOVE U MIKE I LL MISS YOU
Brother Mike, you will be remembered by many of us who have fond memories of your record store and all the knowledge that you brought with it. I have many albums that I purchased there and will think of you often. May you rest in peace until we meet again.
The world will miss your warmth. I know your good spirit will continue to heal the ones who need it. I’m so sorry to family and loved ones for this incredible loss of one of the most amazing people I ever knew. You are all in my thoughts. Stop by for a visit sometime, Mike.
Hello to Mike’s family. My sincere condolences on the passing of Mike. 😔 I bought some great records from Mike over the years and always enjoyed his stories and his spiritual spirit. As a long time record collector, DJ and reseller, let me know if I can be of any assistance with the collection he left behind. Hugs. Tim Dupree / DJ Pup Daddy
Thank you Mike for all the goodness you passed around to all of us who have known you. You are such a blessing to us all ♥️
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My sincere condolences to Sandra and Family
I knew Mike for the past 20 years
Always a joy to talk with and we always managed to share stories of music and life.
Rest Well My Friend!
You are Missed!
❤️❤️
In my mind, a music legend has gone, RIP Mike. I will play some Cactus for you tonight 😞❤️🙏❤️😔