Daniel H. Polett, 89, a prominent businessman, philanthropist, and community leader, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, in Gladwyne, PA. Known for his significant contributions to the Philadelphia area and beyond, Dan's life was marked by his dedication to business excellence, community service, and his devout Catholic faith.

Born on July 14, 1935, in Madison, NJ, Dan served in the U.S. Army Honor Guard and graduated with distinction from Fordham University before attending the General Motors Institute. In 1971, he purchased Wilkie Buick and opened twelve dealerships in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Florida, and West Virginia. Among these, Wilkie Lexus in Haverford, PA, and Lexus of Chester Springs are still operating today. Dan's dedication to exceptional customer service is well-known and widely recognized in the auto industry.

Apart from his business success, Dan was deeply involved in the community. He served on the boards of several organizations, including St. Ignatius Nursing Home, Meridian Bank, Temple Hospital, and Temple University, where he was Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2009. His generous efforts earned him numerous awards, including Trustee of the Year by Modern Healthcare Magazine, Community Leader of the Year by the Arthritis Foundation, and Humanitarian of the Year by Magee Rehabilitation Hospital. Temple University honored him with its Musser Excellence in Leadership award and renamed its main campus thoroughfare in his honor. Dan's contributions also extended to various Catholic organizations and initiatives, which the Catholic Church recognized by appointing him as a Knight of the Order of St. Gregory.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Margo Barry Polett, with whom he shared almost 62 years of love and devotion. He is also survived by his five children, Daniel Polett Jr., Marc Polett and wife Elizabeth, Robert Polett, Christopher Polett, and Margo Polett and husband Jorge, and his three grandchildren, Liam, Lucas, and Howie. Daniel Polett's legacy will live on through his family, businesses, and the countless lives he touched through his generosity. He will be dearly missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Funeral Mass celebrating Daniel Polett's life to be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 11:00 AM at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul, 1723 Race St., Philadelphia, PA. Interment will be private.