NORTHWOOD — Bruce Gerald Odden, 94, of Northwood, died October 18, 2026, at Northwood Pines Assisted Living, surrounded by family, leaving a legacy that stretched from Korean War aircraft maintenance to the farm and family home he built in rural Northwood.
Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday, October 27, at Hoff Celebrations–Sites Memorial Chapel in Northwood. The funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. Burial with military honors will take place at Stateline Cemetery in Northwood.
Bruce was born March 29, 1932, in Northwood to Leif and Ida (Kuhlmann) Odden. He graduated from Northwood High School in 1950 and enlisted in the United States Air Force in December 1951.
His military service included the Korean War, teaching aircraft mechanics in the United States and working as an assistant crew chief on F-84 fighter aircraft in Korea and F-86 fighter aircraft in Japan.
On July 20, 1952, Bruce married Marjorie Urbatch. Their marriage spanned more than seven decades, and together they raised three children: Pamela, Vicki and Luane.
After leaving the Air Force, Bruce purchased a farm near Northwood, where he raised crops and cattle. Early in those farming years, he tore down the old farmhouse and, with help from his father, built a new home for his family.
Carpentry remained another way Bruce put his skills to work. Beyond building a home, he created wooden projects for family members, leaving them tangible reminders of his care and craftsmanship.
Bruce also devoted more than 20 years to serving as a 4-H leader and belonged to the Saddle Club. He enjoyed hunting, riding his Honda Goldwing motorcycle and traveling in the family’s motorhome. Whether working or relaxing, he valued time outdoors.
He is survived by his wife, Marjorie; children Pamela (Michael) Pleiss, Vicki Gerhardt and Luane Odden (Retha King); sister Maxine Wignes; 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren.
Also surviving are his brothers- and sisters-in-law Richard Urbatch, Sharon Dilling, Roger and Wendy Urbatch, and Barb and Dennis Walser, along with many nieces and nephews.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Leif and Ida Odden; parents-in-law Eldred and Lucille Urbatch; son-in-law Ron Gerhardt; great-granddaughter Gracie Roe; and brothers- and sisters-in-law Shirley and Howard Ludens, Marilyn Cooper, Evelyn Urbatch, Leland Dilling and Russell Wignes.
Hoff Celebrations–Sites Memorial Chapel is assisting the family. Memories and condolences may be shared through Bruce’s obituary and guestbook.
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