Donald C. Ponder, Sr. passed away peacefully at the Sarah Community in Bridgeton, Missouri, on April 17, 2026, surrounded by his family.  He was 87 years old.  Don was born May 29, 1938, to Cordula and Herman Ponder in Applecreek, Missouri, where he lived until he joined the Navy at age 18.

Don married the love of his life, Nita Ponder, nee Schumer, in 1959.  They spent nearly 67 wonderful years together.

Upon his discharge from the Navy, Don went to work for Missouri Pacific Railroad, then Union Pacific Railroad, where he worked his way up through the ranks, ultimately achieving the position of PayMaster.

Don and Nita had a close-knit group of friends with whom they shared annual pig roasts, float trips, beach outings in Sarasota, and with whom they traveled extensively.

Don's greatest joy was spending time with Nita, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  They shared family trips to Florida, the Smoky Mountains, Colorado, North Carolina, and Hawaii.  When the family was together, Don would regularly announce, "This is what I like."

Don is survived by his wife, Nita; his five children, Sue Ponder-Bates (Phil Bates) of Festus, Missouri; Chuck Ponder (Sandra) of Cincinnati, Ohio; Rick Ponder (Mary Lou) of St. Louis, Missouri; Kristi Stewart (Rich) of Webster Groves, Missouri; and Jill Johnson (Eric) of Olivette, Missouri; ten grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; two brothers and a sister; and many other family members and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two sisters.

Visitation will be held at 10:00a.m., Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Our Lady of the Presentation Church at 8860 Tudor Ave., Overland, Missouri.

A funeral Mass will immediately follow at 11:00a.m.

Because Don always loved a good party, a Celebration of Life will be held following the service at Nick & Elena's Pizzeria at 3007 Woodson Rd., Overland, Missouri.

Interment will be 11:30a.m. on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Ortmann Funeral Home.