Ralph S. Podas

NEWARK - Ralph S. Podas, 100, of Columbus, died February 21, 2023 at Sharonbrooke Assisted Living, Newark, Ohio. He was born in Minneapolis, MN on September 12, 1922, the youngest of five children, to Harry C. Podas and Flora V. (Frimodig) Podas. He was a 1940 graduate of Roosevelt High School, Minneapolis, MN and completed two years at the University of Minnesota prior to entering the Military Railway Service of the United States Army. He served overseas for two and a half years in World War II and upon discharge, he re-entered the University of Minnesota, graduating in June of 1947. He immediately became employed by the Pennsylvania Railroad and spent his entire business career with that company and its successors (Penn Central and Conrail) until retirement in 1985 as area director of industrial development. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Annabelle (Schmidt) Podas and his loving son, Stephen C. Podas. He is survived by his daughter Lisa Stephens Whitehead (Tom), grandchildren Brandon Stephens (Tori) and Joshua Stephens, as well as extended family. In retirement he researched and wrote on various railroad subjects and in 1994 one of his published pieces won the David P. Morgan Article Award sponsored by the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society. For many years the Podas family have been active members of All Saints Lutheran Church, 6770 North High Street, Worthington, where a memorial service will be held, Monday February 27, 2023 at 1pm. The cremains will be placed in the family niche in the columbarium at All Saints. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to All Saints Lutheran church.