ODGAARD, Carol J. (1934-2020)

ODGAARD

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 1/28/2021 at 16:52:12

Carol J. Odgaard
(February 26, 1934 – December 5, 2020)

Psalm 116:15—Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.

IDA GROVE – Private family services for Carol J. Odgaard, 86, a life-long resident of Ida Grove, was held at Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home in Ida Grove, in charge of arrangements.
Carol was born Feb. 26, 1934, in Ida Grove, third child of Florence (Clouse) and Earl Kephart. She graduated from Ida Grove High School in 1952. As her father was a carpenter, she learned how to hammer, saw and build at an early age; a skill set she used nearly every day of her active life. Through her brother George, she met Tom Odgaard, who became the love of her life. They were married Dec. 14, 1952, in Winebrenner Church of God (now Faith Community Church) in Ida Grove. They both were members until their deaths. The newlyweds lived with his parents on the family farm southwest of town and they helped Earl build their lifetime home next door. This was just in time for the arrival of their first child, Carrie Jean, in 1957, followed by daughter Julie Mae three years later. Faith, family, farming and friends defined Carol’s life. Her dedication to Christ was as important as each breath. Joyfully, she taught Sunday School for all ages, especially focusing on helping children memorize key Bible passages. She had an incredible love for the outdoors, which served her well as a farm wife. Tom and Carol worked side-by-side in their cattle operation, milking cows, feeding chickens, harvesting crops and, thanks to her green thumb, annually managed a huge garden—including in 2020. She was called home by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Dec. 5, 2020, at Willow Dale Wellness Village in Battle Creek.
Carol was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her in-laws; her brothers: Arnold Kephart and George (Norma) Kephart; her sister, Dorothy (Howard) Carson; and her brother-in law, Chester (Virginia) Hurd. She is survived by two daughters, Carrie Odgaard and Julie and Les Todd. Also surviving are her grandchildren: Allison and Peter Ramsing, and Matt and Heaven Todd; four great-grandchildren: Quinn and Glory Todd and Nora and Grace Ramsing; her sister-in-law, Elsie Kephart; many nieces and nephews; a host of family; and friends.
Sources: Ida County Courier, Ida Grove, Iowa, Tues., Dec 8, 2020 and Christensen-VanHouten Funeral Services, Ida Grove, Iowa at http://www.christensenvanhouten.com/