Richard Odem

ODEM, WINTER

Posted By: Mari Nielsen - volunteer (email)
Date: 2/6/2010 at 17:34:07

RICHARD ODEM

Richard Odem, 54, of Chicago, IL, died of head and neck cancer August 12, 1995 in Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, after a lengthy illness. A native of Kirkville, IA, Richard was employed by the American Medical Association in Chicago since 1970.

In 1988, he became Director of the Masterfile Information Department, and AMA division that maintains information on the physicians across the country. He relinquished that post in 1991 because of his eroding communication skills. Richard continued to work despite his illness at the AMA until his death. As his physician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital states: “Richard was an inspiration and role model to many people in demonstrating courage and determination while constantly battling cancer for 11 years.”

Richard received a BA from the University of Iowa in 1967 and earned an MBA from Loyola University of Chicago in 1983. He was member of the American Statistical Association and Omicron Delta Epsilon and International Honor Society of Economics.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Faye and Glen Odem of Ottumwa, IA, and mother-in-law, Joan H. Winter of Wapello, IA.

Survivors include Robin, his wife; brother Daniel and family of Iowa City, IA, and sister, Nancy and family, of Portland, OR, and his many friends whose lives have been enriched by knowing him.

A Memorial Service for Richard was held August 27, 1995 at the Newberry Library in Chicago with Rev. Mary N. Pugh, Wapello Presbyterian Church, presiding.
Interment of the ashes will be Saturday, October 14, 1995 at 1 p.m. at the Wapello Cemetery with Rev. Pugh officiating. Music will be provided by Angela Odem, Iowa City, and Millicent Lou Bunker, Hastings, MN.

Donations may be made to the Odem Memorial for cancer research at the Lurie Cancer Center, 710 N. Fairbanks Court, Chicago, IL 60611.