Nov. 23, 1938 - Dec. 23, 2009

ELKHART -- Connie Marlene Ponder, 71, of 3333 W. Mishawaka Road, died at 10:53 a.m. Wednesday (Dec. 23, 2009) in Valley View Health Care Center after an extended illness.

She was born Nov. 23, 1938, in Bremen to Clarence and Iris (Kyle) McGowen. She married Milburn Lee Ponder on Oct. 3, 1976, in Michigan. He died Aug. 9, 1977.

Survivors include two nieces, Michele S. Hardesty of Mishawaka and Cynthia R. Myers of Elkhart; one sister-in-law, Ida McGowen of Decatur, Mich.; and three great-nephews.

Mrs. Ponder was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Mark Lee Ponder; one brother, Jack D. McGowen; and one sister, Myrna C. Shaw.

She was a former employee of ADEC Industries. She enjoyed cooking, spending time with her family and friends and taking care of her loving cat, Preston.

Cremation has been scheduled and a memorial service will take place at a later date. Her cremated remains will be buried in Rice Cemetery at a later date. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is handling arrangements.

Memorials may be given to Humane Society of Elkhart County, 54687 C.R. 19, Bristol, IN 46507. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.

C.R. 19, Bristol IN 46507.