Wayne N. Ponder, age 82, of Iberia, passed away Friday, March 30, 2012, at St. Mary's Health Center in Jefferson City. He was born in Ulman on December 17, 1929, son of the late Louis and Ruth Ponder. Wayne was married to Ella Louise Hurst, who preceded him in death on January 27, 1997. On November 6, 1997, in Linn, Wayne married Vickie Lynn Smith, who survives at the home.

Wayne served in the United States Army during both the Korean and Vietnam War and was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart. After his military career Wayne worked in Alaska as a carpenter and was a member of the Carpenters Union. He was lifetime member of the Eldon VFW and St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in St. Anthony.

He is survived by two sons, Dennis Ponder and Mark Ponder both of Alaska; four stepchildren, Jeff Abbott of Jefferson City, Joe Abbott of Linn, Lori Colvin of Iberia, and Heather Fristoe of Iberia; four grandchildren; 15 step grandchildren; one sister, Lois Jean Mushrush of Jefferson City; his father and mother-in-law, Perry and Janice Smith of Linn; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was also preceded in death by seven siblings.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with services immediately following at 1 p.m., on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, at Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Iberia. Rev. Ben Nwosu will officiate. Interment with military honors will be in Hickory Point Cemetery near Iberia.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Wayne Ponder Memorial Fund.