Barbara O. Podgorak, 86, of Bennett, died Monday, January 6, 2020 at her residence.

Barbara was born on April 22, 1933 the daughter of Olive (Moder) and Max Kluge. She worked as an LPN in area hospitals and nursing homes for over 40 years.

She enjoyed, gardening, knitting, and crocheting. She also enjoyed cooking and baking and made excellent pies. Barbara was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the VFW Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Thomas; great-grandson, Aydin; and brothers, Bob, Max, Ron and Ernie Kluge.

Barbara is survived by her children, Kathleen (George) Lundgren of Superior, Rose Marie Mueller of Superior, Thomas (Connie) Podgorak of St. Francis, MN, Richard Podgorak of Bennett, Paul Podgorak of Wausau, WI, Vivian (William) Backmann of St. Michael, MN, and Tammy (David Bollaert) Harbinson of Otsego, MN; 18 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; and her fur-babies.

Visitation will be on Friday, January 10 ^th from Noon until the 1:00 p.m. funeral service at Downs Funeral Home, 1617 N 19 ^th Street. Gary Banker will officiate. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.