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Ben O'Dell Obituary

Ben K. O'Dell, age 83, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 15, 2012. He was born June 19, 1929 to the late Gertrude (nee Ryan) and Ben O'Dell in Greeley, Iowa on the family farm where he was raised with a very strong work ethic. A graduate of Cornell College of Mt. Vernon, IA, a member of the colleges' 1947 NCAA Championship Wrestling Team which was inducted into the State and National Hall of Fame. He was a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corp. who served during the Korean Conflict. Beloved husband of 61 years to Betty (nee Sweany); Loving father of Michael (Kathryn) O'Dell, Patty (Steve) Dankert, David (Carol) O'Dell and Rob (Jeannine) O'Dell. Devoted grandfather of Sean, Casey and William; Ryan and Becky; Brian, Beth, Tim and Benjamin; Dan and Calvin. Proud great-grandfather of 10. Several nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters. A former resident of Waukesha, WI and Wheaton, IL, Ben was a retired business owner and salesman extraordinaire. He truly was a people person who was passionate about life, his family and accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour in 1970. All friends and relatives are invited to Minooka Bible Church, 412 N. Wabena St., Minooka, IL, Friday, September 21, 2012, where a Memorial Service will begin at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Child Evangelism Fellowship would be appreciated. Visitation Thursday, 4 - 8 p.m. at: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet. For information: (815) 741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Central DuPage News/Leader/Post/Press on Sep. 18, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
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Anissa Cardwell

September 24, 2012

Ben Jammer, so sorry for your loss. We all loved your grandfather. I missed seeing him after leaving the bank. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Marye Scharf

September 20, 2012

Dear Patty, Mike, David and Rob, While you will miss your dad with all your heart, he loved the Lord with all of his, and we know that's were he is right now; with the Lord. He was a good Christian, and a wonderfully delightful person. As we looked on him with great fondness and respect, he inspired us to live a better life for the Lord. Having brought great joy in living, he will bring great sorrow in passing, but God will comfort all of you. Please know you are all in my prayers, especially your mom who will miss him very much I know. They were such a sweet loving couple. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Marye

Ryan Wright

September 20, 2012

I never had the chance to meet your dad Mike but I pray for you and your family.

Rick and Ellen Hein

September 19, 2012

Dear Dave and Family, Please accept our Deepest Sympathy. Our thoughts and prayer are with you and our family.

Reginald Bass

September 19, 2012

Ben was an inspiration to so many. He always reminded me to "start each day by counting my blessings".

Vanessa Robinson

September 19, 2012

I am so sorry to hear about Mr. O'Dell gone much to soon. He was a great encouragement to me. Betty I am so sorry for your loss and I am praying for you and your family. The Lord Bless You and Keep You, Mr. O'Dell will be missed.

Kathy and Brian Tinsman

September 19, 2012

Dear David & Family, Please accept our Deepest Sympathies. Your Dad was such a wonderful man. Our prayers are with you and your whole family. God Bless all of you.

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