Raymond Barry Pollok

CW2 Raymond Barry Pollok

September 11, 1946 – September 21, 2025

CW2 Raymond Barry Pollok, 79, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Mission Hills, CA, surrounded by his family.

He is survived by his wife, Elle Pollok; his children, Daniel and Michelle Pollok; his brother, Julian Pollok; and his sister-in-law, Suzanne Pollok.

Born in Inglewood, CA, on September 11, 1946, to George Pollok and Tessie Snitzer, Raymond grew up in Burbank, Glendale, and Hollywood. Always adventurous, he filled his childhood with curiosity and mischief—raising a pet raccoon, bird, and even an octopus. He often joked that he had invented the skateboard by fastening wheels to a piece of plywood.

After graduating from Hollywood High School, Raymond enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 17 with the dream of becoming an aviator. He achieved that dream as a Huey helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. He flew both Slicks and Gunships through the jungles of Pleiku and Cambodia, later transferring to Saigon where he piloted VIP missions for the 120th Aviation Company. Rising through the ranks, he eventually served as one of General William Westmoreland’s personal Aircraft Commanders. His courage and skill in combat earned him the Purple Heart, the Air Medal, and numerous other commendations for distinguished service.

When his military career concluded, Raymond carried his love of flying into civilian life. He spent several years flying police helicopters for the Santa Monica Police Department before transitioning to fixed-wing aircraft, flying international charter missions across Europe, Asia, and Australia. He piloted everything from heavy-lift helicopters to multi-engine airplanes, eventually moving into corporate and executive aviation where he flew business leaders, dignitaries, and celebrities around the world.

His aviation career culminated at Northrop Grumman, where he spent 25 years. Starting as a line captain, he quickly advanced to Chief Pilot, then Aviation Department Manager, and ultimately Vice President and General Manager of Aviation. In that role, he oversaw a fleet of two dozen aircraft—half dedicated to corporate travel and half to flight testing—operating out of nine bases across the country with nine Chief Pilots reporting to him. His work included corporate executive travel, movie star charters, and leading formations of new Northrop F-5 fighter deliveries across the globe.

In retirement, Raymond poured his energy into his community in Granada Hills. A proud veteran, he served as Commander of VFW Post 2323 for multiple terms and ultimately as Judge Advocate. He was also an elected board member of the Granada Hills North Neighborhood Council for over a decade, Vice President and Chairman of the Public Safety Committee, and an active member of the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce. Alongside his wife, Elle, he built a successful real estate practice with Remax Olson in Porter Ranch.

Through it all, Raymond was defined by his devotion to family, his service to others, and his boundless spirit of adventure. He lived many lives—as a decorated veteran, accomplished aviator, community leader, and most importantly, a loving husband, father, brother, and friend.

He leaves us with his own words:

“CW2 Ray Pollok Resting in Peace. It was a great, wonderful life. Thanks.”