Trending
ISHPEMING -- William Charles 'Bill' Podner, 76, of Ishpeming, passed away peacefully Sunday morning, May 25, 2025, following a short battle with brain cancer.
Bill was born Aug. 8, 1948, in Hancock to Raymond and Dorothy (Isaacson) Luoto and graduated from Jeffers High School, Class of 1966. He married Dawn Dickow on Aug. 5, 1972, in Hancock before moving to Ishpeming to raise their family.
Bill was a self-employed carpet installer, working with McCabe's Flooring and Carpet Specialists.
Bill was an avid Detroit sports fan, cheering for the Lions, Tigers, Pistons and Red Wings. He loved listening to old country music; Waylon, Johnny and George, and enjoyed playing the lottery. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family, especially being with grandchildren and watching their sporting events.
Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Dawn Podner; daughters, Michelle (Bud) Laitala of Negaunee, Danielle (Shane) Nault of Ishpeming; four grandchildren, Liam and Kenley Laitala, and Nolan and Eilee Nault; brother, Steven Luoto of Chassell; sisters, Christine (Fred) Vezzetti of Detroit, Susan Luoto of West Branch, and Cathy (Don) Fox of Manistique.
He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son, Brandon; and his brother, Richard Podner.
A Celebration of Life and luncheon will be held from 1-4 pm on Saturday, May 31, at the Negaunee Elks Lodge.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Jeremy Steele, PA, UP Home Health and Hospice and The Trillium House for their wonderful care provided.
Bill's memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.