What is the proper way to disperse funds to a minor child named as a POD upon the death of the account owner? Would the check be made payable to the minor?

Seems that it would be payable to the minor. In order to negotiate it, however, I would think the custodian or guardian of the minor would be involved in establishing some sort of account in the minor's name.

You should verify with counsel, but it should probably be made payable to the minor's guardian FBO the minor.