Edward J. Poderzay

Funeral Mass for Edward Joseph Poderzay, 83, of Gilbert, will be 10am Friday in St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Gilbert with Fr. Frank F. Perkovich as celebrant. Visitation will be one hour prior to the mass at church. Burial will be in the Gilbert Cemetery. Arrangements by Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Gilbert. Mr. Poderzay died on March 5, 2011 at the home of his fiancee', the loving and devoted care giver, Katherine Trampusch of Gilbert, after a long hard-fought battle with cancer. He was born Dec. 16, 1927 in Gilbert to John and Mary Poderzay. Edward received his diploma from Gilbert High School and on Aug. 7, 1950 he married Phyllis Kutcher in Virginia. Ed worked for 30 years for Pittsburgh Pacific as a motor mechanic and for 20 years as a Foreman for US Steel. He enjoyed spending time with Katherine and her family at the cabin on Lake Vermilion. He loved gardening and singing. He sang for many years in the St. Joseph's Funeral Choir, the Men's Choir and Fr. Perkovich's Polka Mass. Ed served on the Gilbert Police Commission and the Gilbert Housing and Re-development Authority. He was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, the KSKJ Lodge #196, where he held the office of Sergeant at arms. He is survived by his fiancee, the love of his life for the past 10 years, Katherine Trampusch; her daughters: Veronica Perttu and Linda Trampusch; her grandchildren, Jordan Perttu, Rianna Perttu, Justin Perttu and Rielle Perttu all of Chanhassen, whom he loved as his own; his son, William (Debbie) Poderzay of Mt. Iron; daughter, Mary Jo (Kenneth) Volker of Chisholm; four grandchildren: David, Cory, Stephanie and Michael; great grandchild, Sophia; his beloved companion, the little black poodle, Baby; nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Phyllis; brother, John; sister, Mary. Katherine and the family wish to thank everyone for all the support, visits, help, cards, calls, prayers and love that was sent. Ed was blessed with many caring friends and family and everyone's help made every day better for him.