When Gary Andrew Odendahl was born on April 18, 1941, in Ingersoll Ontario, Canada, to Arthur and Marion Lucille Robinson Odendahl, he like each of us, was destined to depart this life. Gary passed away on Wednesday, August 10 , 2022 at Integris Hospital in Oklahoma City at 81 years of age.  His father, 2 sisters, Brenda and Patricia, his daughter Shannon, his first wife Kathy, and his step-father, Edward Mackoske preceded him in death.

When Gary was 10 years old, he moved to Dearborn, Michigan. He continued to spend time with his relatives in Canada, playing the Canadian game of broomball, coaching different team sports. He learned a valuable lesson from his uncle to work hard. Gary worked for Ford Motor, Co. for 36 years. He was a team leader for Sheet Metal Fabrication at all facilities in Detroit and Dearborn, Michigan. Upon retirement he and his wife Judith moved to Oklahoma where it wasn't so cold.

Gary enlisted in the United States Army on February 16, 1961, serving 3 years. He received an Honorable Discharge as a Sergeant and was classified as an expert Marksman. After his discharge he became a Naturalized U. S. Citizen. Gary was a member of The American Legion, District 4.

Gary was described as a very private person. But he loved life, had a good sense of humor and being around people. He was well read and he could talk to anyone about anything. Gary had a servant's heart. Wherever there was a need, Gary did what he could to help. He wanted people to be happy. He also loved being Cuckoo the clown and he always knew how to break the ice for children and make them laugh. Gary was an avid reader of many topics including history, science, politics, wildlife, etc. He loved motorcycles and rehabbing wildlife especially raptors and falcons.

Gary was involved with several masonic organizations which include Chandler Lodge #58, Frontier Lodge, Stillwater, OK, Scottish Rite and Legion of Honor, Guthrie, OK, York Rite, Stillwater OK; Past Commander of Knights Templar; Red Cross of Constantine; and India Shrine. He also promoted the Beauceant and DeMolay. 

Gary leaves to cherish his memories, his wife Judith of 29 year of the home, his mother, a son, Richard Odendahl, London, Ontario, Canada, grandchildren, Sarah Brule, Amber Barton and Andrew Odendahl all of London, Canada and 4 great grandchildren. He has another son, Zach Tarwater, his wife Taylor and granddaughter Harper of Carney, OK. Gary also leaves his step-children Susan Oldenburg-Patel, Karen Bolin, David Odenburg, Diane Durecka and Monica Odenburg-Linnger and grandchildren. He also leaves other relatives and many friends.