Perry Robert Ponder, age 71 of Joplin, passed away Wednesday, December 29, 2010, at his home. He was born in Susanville, California on October 17, 1939, son of the late Dorsey and Emma (Hicks) Ponder. On February 14, 1965 in Iberia, Mr. Ponder married Marilyn Ferguson, who survives at the home.

Mr. Ponder served in the U.S. Air Force and graduated from the University of Missouri-Rolla (now the School of Technology) with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was employed at O'Sullivan Industries in Lamar, Missouri for over 20 years until his retirement in 2007. Mr. Ponder was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Joplin and also a member of the Iberia Masonic Lodge for 48 years.

He is also survived by one son, Erik Ponder and wife Lezley of Ozark; one daughter, Amber Ponder of Joplin; three grandsons, Brenden, Cody, and Kyle; one brother, Louie Ponder and wife Catherine of Iberia; and nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 12 (noon) to 2 p.m., with services immediately following at 2 p.m., on Sunday, January 2, 2011 at Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Iberia. Rev. Ron Orr will officiate. Interment will be in Iberia Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Relay for Life-Barton County.