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IRON MOUNTAIN -- Joseph David Podgornik passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, after a courageous two year battle with cancer.
Joe was born in Iron Mountain, on April 17, 1951, to Stephen and Lois Podgornik. He was a 1969 graduate of Iron Mountain High School and was a lifelong resident of Iron Mountain and Kingsford.
Joe began working at Freeman Convalescent Home, later known as Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation, right after high school. His father taught him all there was to know about the nursing home business, which began with his grandmother Sorrie Freeman.
He retired as maintenance supervisor after 46 years. He made it his mission to serve the residents and staff every day. Joe worked evenings and very early mornings when he made sure the parking lot was clear of snow for staff arriving to work.
Joe was an avid fisherman and loved spending time with his "fishing buddies" Ron Perron, Donny Perron, Jeff (Hondo) Hart and Dean Ruohomaki. He loved the camaraderie with family and friends at his hunting camp. He spent years as the treasurer and early member of the Partanen Ringers Club. Spending time with his family was such an important part of his life.
Joe married Faye Partanen on Oct. 23, 1971, at St. Mary and St. Joseph Church in Iron Mountain.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Faye; one son, Scott of Kingsford; a brother, Steve (Lori) Podgornik of Norway; a sister, Sue (Larry) Tinti of Norway; a brother-in-law, Larry (Barb) Partanen of Kingsford; several nieces and nephews; his aunts, Edna Dennis and Donna Legault; and many cousins.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his son, Eric; his in-laws, George and Gladys Partenan; and brothers-in-law, Tom Cocking and Bob Partenan.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 23 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Erickson-Rochon and Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Jim Danielson officiating. Burial will immediately follow at the Quinnesec Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made, at Joe's request, to the Dickinson County Cancer Unit Loan Closet, 201 E. Breitung Ave., Kingsford, MI 49802.
Condolences may be expressed to the family of Joseph D. Podgornik online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.
The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon and Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.