Michael J. “Mike” Pollack

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.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 30, at the Black-Heald & Walker Funeral Home, 580 Main Street, Springvale. Interment will take place in the spring at St. Ignatius Cemetery in Sanford.