AUBURN____Jane M. (Krasuski) Ponda, 85, of 301 Bryn Mawr Ave., died Saturday July 5 in Life Care Center of Auburn, 14 Masonic Circle.
Her husband, Joseph J. Ponda died in 1985.She leaves a daughter, Madeline L. Tovar of Silver City, New Mexico; a longtime friend Joseph Valach of Auburn; a grandson and a granddaughter and nephews and nieces. She was born and raised in Webster, daughter of Ambrose and Lucy (Hipcz) Krasuski. She later lived in Marlborough several years before coming to Auburn where she has resided for many years.
Mrs. Ponda was a self-employed musician and was an accomplished trumphet player. Prior to and during World War II she was a member of Maxine King's All Girl Orchestra and played throughout New England. After World War II she played in trio's including the Rhythmettes and played at various locations including the Oxford Improvement Club and Vern's Restaurant and Lounge in Sutton. She retired several years ago.
Mrs. Ponda was graduated from Marlborough High School.She was a member of Our Lady of Czestochowa Church in Worcester and was also a member of Musicians Union local 143 and held its gold card.
The funeral will be held on Wednesday July 9 from Henry - Dirsa Funeral Home, 33 Ward St., Worcester with a Mass at 10:30 a.m. in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, 34 Ward St., Worcester. Burial will follow in St. Josephs Cemetery, Webster. A calling hour will be held on Wednesday morning July 9 from 9 to 10 a.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Marys Schools, 50 Richland St., Worcester, 01610.