Walter Anthony Podraza

PODRAZA-Walter Anthony Podraza, 93, a resident of Rio Rancho since 1977 passed away on April 8, 2010, after a long illness and is now at peace. He was born in Mt. Pleasant, PA on June 22, 1916, first generation son of Stanley Podraza and May Zelinsky who immigrated from Poland. He married his dancing partner, Marjorie Josephine Clausner, 64 years ago in Mt. Pleasant. He was a Veteran and loved his country. He worked in the steel industry for many years. Upon retirement, Walter and Marjorie moved to Rio Rancho in 1977. He was an involved citizen in the community. He was active in the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, helping the growing parish in any way that he could. He was a life member of the Knights of Columbus Council, #6696 and Assembly, #1905 in Rio Rancho, having been active in the K of C for 31 years. He was a life-time member of the Moose Lodge, #1517 and the American Legion. He helped those two organizations in any way he was able. Walter loved baseball and played for the Meadowlark All-Stars, as well as taking an active role at the Meadowlark Senior Center. He and Marjorie did quite a bit of traveling, and especially enjoyed cruises together. Walter was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Stainislaw, Jacob, and Francis; sisters, Anna, Sofie, Eleanor. He is survived by his wife Marjorie; brother, Adam Podraza; sister-in-law, Violet of Deer Park, NY and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Arrangements are entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services 4310 Sara Road SE Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124 505-892-9920