November 12, 1945 - December 6, 2016
Service
Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at 11 a.m., Central College Presbyterian Church
Burial
Blendon Central Cemetery (Private)
ODGERS
Carl Richard Odgers, age 71, passed away on December 6, 2016 following a lengthy illness. Rick was born on November 12, 1945 to the late John and Ruth (Fassler) Odgers. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jodi Ellen (Fike) Odgers; son Mark Odgers; daughter Kaitlyn (Tony) Ashbrook; grandchildren AJ and Jenna Ashbrook; brothers John F. Odgers and David (Barbara) Odgers; sister Laurian (Don) Moninger; and many other wonderful and loving family members. Rick was a resident of Westerville from his childhood and graduated from Westerville High School in 1963. He earned a bachelor’s degree at Capital University and M.A. and Ph.D. at The Ohio State University. Rick was a music teacher and guidance counselor in the Columbus City Schools until 1977, when he began working at Westerville North High School. He was a guidance counselor and assistant principal until his retirement in 1995. As a teenager, Rick lived for two years in New Delhi, India, which sparked his passion for travel. He visited all fifty states and numerous countries around the world. He always kept a “wish list” of places he and Jodi wanted to see. Rick was a talented musician and composer. He shared his love of music by serving as choir director, pianist and organist for many local churches and also served as the staff musician for the Moreland Funeral Home in Westerville . He was a composer and arranger of music for a number of high schools, universities and musical groups. He was active in the Westerville community as a member of the Civic Symphony Board and worked to restore and maintain the Westerville calliope, which he played at many local events. He especially loved to play piano for all types of parties and gatherings. sparked his passion for travel. He visited all fifty states and numerous countries around the world. He always kept a “wish list” of places he and Jodi wanted to see. Rick was a talented musician and composer. He shared his love of music by serving as choir director, pianist and organist for many local churches and also served as the staff musician for the Moreland Funeral Home in Westerville . He was a composer and arranger of music for a number of high schools, universities and musical groups. He was active in the Westerville community as a member of the Civic Symphony Board and worked to restore and maintain the Westerville calliope, which he played at many local events. He especially loved to play piano for all types of parties and gatherings. Rick was also an avid photographer and enjoyed participating in photo activities and contests through the Westerville Senior Center. The photos he has taken over the years will be treasured. Rick’s greatest accomplishments, however, centered on his love and dedication to his family. His creativity, positive attitude and great sense of humor will be missed by all who knew and loved him. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Central College Presbyterian Church, 975 S. Sunbury Road, Westerville, Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at 11 a.m., Rev. Malcom Davis, officiating. A reception will be held at the church following the service. Private interment at Blendon Central Cemetery by MORELAND FUNERAL HOME. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.
Condolences
Don Wilke - Dec 13, 2016
Jodi
I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. You and yours are in my prayers. Bless you all.
Amy Noble Thomas - Dec 11, 2016
My life was blessed at church by his music and at school by his leadership. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Odgers family.
Phyllis and Bob Haegele - Dec 11, 2016
Jodi and family very sorry to hear of Rich’s passing. Working with him as a counselor was awesome and I always enjoyed his wit. Bob
And from the administrative side of the office I found Rick to be one amazing scholar and unparalleled gentleman. He had an amazing sense of humor but was always a professional. His belief in academic excellence inspired us all. He will be so missed. Phyllis
Laura Piazza - Dec 10, 2016
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
Dena Martin ( Casa) - Dec 10, 2016
Very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.
Mary Bell - Dec 10, 2016
I got to enjoy Rick’s piano playing, singing & jokes when we attended Career conferences. He was a great man who was always smiling & bringing joy to others! I will pray for your family to help you get through this holiday season. Rick is in a better place 😍
Cathy Fike - Dec 10, 2016
i was surprised and saddened by the news of Rick’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family.
Boo Porter - Dec 9, 2016
To Sharon church and the Odgers family:
Although its difficult today
to see beyond the sorrow
May looking back in memory
help comfort you tomorrow.
Barry Osterbur - Dec 9, 2016
So sorry to hear about Rick! I have many great memories of him in the Men’s Glee Club at Cap…what a great musician and great guy…Thoughts and prayers, Jodi, for you and all Rick’s loved ones.
Erik Thompson - Dec 9, 2016
Jodi-
So sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. Bless you.
MIMI MUDRAK - Dec 9, 2016
My heart is broken to hear of the passing of Rick, our WHS 1963 Classmate. Please know that our thoughts & prayers are with you Jodi, Mark & Kaitlyn plus the rest of your family. Every time I travel Walnut St & pass the house where he grew up I think of him. He gave so much in his musical talent & his years as an educator
We will be missed. Hugs. Mimi & Marty Mudrak
Patricia Gill - Dec 8, 2016
Jodi,
I was so sorry to read about Rick’s passing. How difficult for you, especially after 49 years of marriage and weathering so much with love. My heart goes out to you and the rest of the family. I will be out of state when his service is planned.
My condolences.
A big hug for you,
Pat Gill
Deborah Rossi-Cook - Dec 8, 2016
Dear Jodi, I am so very sorry to read of your husband’s passing. May God keep you and your family in his blessings.
Sending hugs to you,
Deb Cook
William - Dec 8, 2016
So sorry to read of Rick’s death What a great talent and friend. It was a joy to have known and worked with him.