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Barbara J. Podner

HOUGHTON – Barbara J. Podner, 67, a resident of Arbor Green, in Houghton and former South Range and Iron River resident, died unexpectedly due to an apparent heart attack at her home on Thursday, December 8, 2016.

She was born on June 21, 1949, in Hancock, a daughter of the late Henry and Minerva (Lammie) Autio. Barbara graduated from Mount Tahoma High School in Tacoma, Washington.

She was married to Richard Podner who preceded her in death on May 20, 2004.

Barbara was employed with Copper Country Mental Health as a residential care specialist.

Barbara was a member of the Houghton Baptist Church where she was involved in many activities of the church.

She was also a member of the Toivola Senior Center and was a devoted volunteer with Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly.

Barbara enjoyed reading Stephen King novels, listening to music, especially Elvis Presley and was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys. She loved spending time with family and will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

Barbara is survived by three children and five grandchildren, Dennis Podner of Iron Mountain and his children, Chloe and Gavin, Ronnie Dove, Jr. of Iron River and his daughter, Cassidy, Shannon (Greg) Drake of Bath, New York and their children, Cody and Caleb; two brothers and one sister, Norman Autio of South Range, Pauline (Jim) Mulari of South Range and Bill Autio of Lake Linden; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 15, 2016, at the Houghton Baptist Church, 2801 West Sharon Ave., Houghton, with Pastor David Whitaker to officiate. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 15, 2016, in the church.

Interment will be in the South Range Cemetery.

Arrangements are being handled by the Mountain View Mortuary of South Range, Antila Funeral Service, Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at antilafuneral.com