(May 28, 1950 - June 24, 2025)
Passed away peacefully at home, at the age of 75. Loving husband and friend of Lindy (nee Hooper) for 48 years. Dad of Julie Campbell (Blair), Kristy Johnson (Steve) and Kelsey Odber. Proud Pa of Logan and Rory Campbell and Alyssa, Kaitlyn and Sarah Johnson.
Tom was born in 1950 to Ida and Chan Odber. He was raised in Prince Township as number seven of 11 kids: brothers late Bruce (Velma), Jim (late Margaret Ann), Dave (Diane), Fred (Brenda) and Gerry (Debbie) and sisters Norma (late Joe), Evelyn (late Lloyd), Doreen (late Orville), June (Cecil), and Cathy (Craig). Having this many siblings meant that for the rest of his life, Tom’s favorite thing was the first piece of anything, and he never ate the last piece in case someone else was hungry. He was Uncle Tom to many nieces and nephews and brother-in-law of Denise Ontonovich (Jeff). Son-in-law of the late Joe and Elsie Hooper.
Tom was gifted in his ability to design, fix and problem solve. This gift also meant he collected things just in case he needed it one day to fix something. He opened Tom Odber Contracting in 1979 with the purchase of his first bulldozer. He grew this into a successful business and would proudly show roads, buildings, homes and businesses he had worked on over the years. He had a true talent in operating any piece of equipment as if it were a natural extension of his own hands. He was hard working, driven and committed to living life on his own terms. He had a wonderful sense of humour and shared this generously. His vocal skills and ability to modify song lyrics always lit up a room.
Tom could be the life of the party, a great storyteller and could comfortably engage in a conversation with anyone. He loved spending time at his camp at Tay Lake, hunting, fishing and being in remote places, but also was continually figuring out how to bring the comforts of home to remote locations. He said this was to encourage us to join him, but we knew it was also because of how much he liked his heating blanket and satellite television.
Tom was blessed with so many friends for whom he cared deeply. Please know that you all held a place of great importance in his life. A special thank you to his brother Gerry Odber, Penny and Dave Glover, Tod Herriman and many great neighbours and friends who all helped him significantly over the time of his illness. Our appreciation and thanks to his wonderful team of care providers Dr. Michela Febbraro, Dr. Stephane Thibodeau, Dr. Nicki Apostle, RN Lisa Chandler, Dr. Saara Rawn, Dr. Heather O’Brien, Dr. Jim MacLean and NP Willi Kirenko.
Tom’s love of life and adventurous spirit allowed him to bounce back from many injuries and illnesses. He defied the odds time and time again. His strength was admirable.
As per Tom’s request, there will be no formal funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Tracy’s Dream would be greatly appreciated by the family.
Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758). www.northwoodfuneral.com
He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.