Southwick- Ellsworth Irvin Odell Jr., 95, affectionately known as “Whitey” “Uncle Jr”; passed away in the loving care of his family at his home on March 4, 2018. He was the devoted husband of 61 years to Shirley J. (King) Odell. Ellsworth was born on March 3, 1923 in Summit, New Jersey ; a son of the late Ellsworth I. and Helen (Wagner) Odell Sr. He was a graduate of Madison High School, Madison, New Jersey.
Prior to retirement in 1998 from the Strathmore Paper Co., Westfield, Ellsworth was previously employed for many years, in the construction industry. Ellsworth enjoyed playing golf, fishing, traveling with his family, and was a member of the Southwick Senior Center. With the death of their daughter Petty Officer Nancy R. Odell-Liupakka in 1987, in Italy, Mr. and Mrs. Odell were recipients as Gold Star Parents; and two weeks ago received from VFW Post#872, Soutwick, a Citation from the Legislature for his many years of quiet service and support to the town and to his wife Shirley as an active Gold Star Father. In addition to his wife, he leaves 2 sons, Richard J. Odell of Hopkinton, MA , Tomas E. Odell and his wife Lisa, of Glenwood, Iowa; a daughter, Shirley A. Warner and her husband Seth, of Tolland, MA; a daughter in law, Susanne Farber of Upton, MA; two grandchildren, Taylor Rose Odell of Amherst, MA and Austin W. Odell of Durham, NC. He is also survived by extended family members. Besides his parents and his daughter he was predeceased by a brother William Odell and a sister, Helen DeSantis.
Calling hours are Saturday (March 10th) 3:00PM -7:00PM with a 6:30PM funeral home service in the Southwick Forastiere Family Funeral Home, 624 College Highway, Southwick. Burial will be in the Spring. Donations may be made to the Southwick E.M.T./ Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 532, Southwick, MA 01077. www.forastiere.com
