Thomas R. Poderzay, Sr., 91, of Soudan, entered into eternal rest on January 22, 2019.

Tom was born July 13, 1927 in Soudan, MN. He attended and graduated from Tower-Soudan High School and enlisted in the US Army in December of 1945 during World War II and re-enlisted into the Army during the Korean War.

He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Dolores, on November 15, 1955 in Neckarweihingen, Germany while he was serving in the United States Armed Forces. After returning to the United States, they lived in Fort Polk, LA., for a short time before settling in Soudan in 1957.

After working for 30 years, Tom retired from Erie Mining Company.

Tom was a member of St. Martin's Catholic Church and the KSKJ Lodge. He enjoyed playing accordion with his brothers and sisters, doing crossword puzzles, watching game shows and spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his children; Dolores "Toots" and Terry Sandnas, Tom and Bernie (Russo) Poderzay, Robert and Tina Poderzay; grandchildren Laura Aune, April & Jesse Glass, Erin & Bill Bryson, Jacob Sandnas, Christina Poderzay, Donald Poderzay, Brennan & Ashley Poderzay and Jordan Poderzay as well as eight great-grandchildren; Kate and Luke Cheney, Sawyer, Laurin and Libby Glass, Vera and Audrey Bryson and sister and brother-in-law Theresa & Frank Galaski as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 54 years, Dolores; brothers: Robert, Leonard, Joe and Tony; and sisters: Caroline Akins and Pauline Trucano.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Schwinghamer, the staff of Ely Bloomenson Community Hospital, Boundary Waters Care Center, the staff of Vermilion Senior Living and the Essentia Health East Range Hospice team for all the compassionate care Tom received.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 30 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Martin's Catholic Church in Tower, with the Rev. Fr. Nick Nelson as celebrant. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at church. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Tower. Military Honors will be accorded by the Cook VFW Post #1757 Honor Guard and the Orr American Legion Post #480 Honor Guard. Arrangements are with the Mlaker Funeral Home of Cook. To leave an online condolence visit www.mlakerfuneralhome.com