David O'Dell

David L. O'Dell, 78, of Huntington, passed away at 5:28 am Saturday, January 3, 2026, at his residence surrounded by the love of his family. David was born on January 23, 1947, in Elkhart, IN, the son of Eldon O'Dell and Violet (Shimer) O'Dell. He graduated from Elkhart High School with the class of 1965 and was drafted into the United States Army. He was stationed overseas in Korea during the Vietnam War. David was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his family and community. After his military service, he returned home and built a life marked by resilience and kindness. David was blessed to find love again later in life; he married Martha Curtis on September 19, 2020, in Huntington, IN. He retired from N.I. Pac (Indiana Box) of Huntington, IN in 2012 after many years of loyal service. He previously was employed at Ken Koat, Inc. of Huntington and Highland Cemetery in South Bend, IN, both in maintenance. David enjoyed fishing, landscaping, college football and playing computer games. He was passionate about building things with his hands, small engine repair, welding, and tinkering around his garage. There really was nothing he couldn’t build or fix. He loved making tools and machines to make jobs easier. After retirement, David found joy in taking road trips and traveling to National Landmarks with his wife. He especially cherished the memories they made together, capturing photos and collecting souvenirs from each destination. David liked traveling Route 66 and visiting the car museums, often sharing stories of the unique cars he saw along the way. When at home, he made sure the neighborhood birds were fed well. He amused himself by creating elaborate obstacle courses for the squirrels, challenging them to retrieve peanuts. Although David was drafted, he was very proud of his time spent in the military. He felt his time in the Army gave him valuable life skills and a strong work ethic that shaped the rest of his life. His unwavering dedication to his family stood as a profound reflection of the love he held for each member. The impact of David’s life will continue to resonate through those he cherished. Survivors include his loving Wife, Martha O'Dell of Huntington, IN; Children, Timothy (Lisa) O'Dell of Fort Wayne, IN, Kevin (Amanda) O'Dell of Elkhart, IN, Richard Zawacki of Mishawaka, IN, Russell Zawacki of Osceola, IN, Richard (Ashley) Cyccone of East Pointe, MI, Joseph (Joseph Palazzola) Thrush of Reading, MI, Sam (Mark) Smith of Huntington, IN, Kat (Chris Moriey) O'Dell of Niles, MI, Liz (Tom) Rich of Osceola, IN, Jennifer Thrush of Clinton Township, MI, Jacquelyn (John) Kaplenski of St. Clair Shores, MI; Sister, Donna Dejeager of Elkhart, IN; Brother, Donald (Lindy) O'Dell of Mishawaka, IN; twenty-four Grandchildren, numerous Great Grandchildren and many nieces & nephews. He is preceded in death by his Father, Eldon O'Dell, Mother, Violet O'Dell, two Previous Spouse, Betty “Sue” Yoder O’Dell & Esther "Sue" Swift O'Dell and Daughter-In-Law Jackie Zawacki. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN. Funeral services will be held at 7:00 pm Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary with Pastor Jason Fields officiating. Burial at a later date in Grace Lawn Cemetery in Middlebury, IN. Preferred memorials to the Honor Flight of Northeast Indiana, in care of Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN, 46750. Please sign the online guest book at www.baileylove.com. Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary is honored to serve the family of David L. O'Dell.

David O'Dell

January 23, 1947 - January 3, 2026