Raymond E. Ponder Sr.

Mr. Raymond E. "Poncho" Ponder Sr., age 77 years, of Jefferson City, Mo., died Tuesday, January 1, 2013, at Jefferson City Manor Care Center. He was born on April 11, 1935, in Centertown, Mo., the son of Clay Phillip and Sylvia Lee McKee Ponder. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1954 until 1955. A lifelong resident of the central Missouri area, Ray was employed at various local businesses including: Mercurio Market and Store, Von Hoffmann Press, the State Capitol Building, and as a barber at Southside Barbershop. Ray was a member of St. Peter Church. He enjoyed fishing, bow hunting, feeding the squirrels in his backyard, and had a natural talent for carving wood, especially walking canes. He also enjoyed learning and sharing his knowledge on Native American History. Survivors include: one son, Raymond Ponder Jr. of Jefferson City, Mo.; two daughters, Olivia Barklage (Tom) of Jefferson City, Mo. and Lolitta Ponder (Debbie) of Jefferson City, Mo.; one sister, Charlene Heckerman of Jefferson City, Mo.; five grandchildren, Hollie Cole (Craig), Jacob Raymond Barklage, Ashley Rogers, Rachel Barklage, and Grace Barklage; five great-grandchildren, David Cole, James Cole, Patricia Cole, Jason Cole, and June Cole; 24 nieces and nephews; numerous great- nieces and nephews; and one great-great nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Bill Ponder, Roger Ponder, and Wayland "Poodle" Ponder. Visitation will be held at St. Peter Catholic Church from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 11, 2013. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 10:00 a.m., Friday, January 11, 2013, at St. Peter Catholic Church with the Reverend Anthony Viviano officiating. Private graveside services and interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Raymond Ponder Memorial Fund. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com