August 10, 1920 - June 30, 2021
Hans Morris Odegaard passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 30th at the age of 100, just shy one month of his 101st birthday.
Hans was born on August 10, 1920 to Theodore and Annie Odegaard in Valbrand, Saskatchewan. He was the third child of four children. Prior to enlisting in the army Hans entered the trucking business in his local community of Canwood. In February 1942 Hans enlisted in the army and was sent overseas to serve in Britain, Belgium, Holland and Germany. Before leaving he married his wife Norah Goulding of Canwood. During his time in the services he worked as a mechanic and in transportation. In January 1946, completing his time overseas, he returned home to Canwood where he opened a farm equipment business which he ran until the family moved to Duncan, BC in 1952. On the coast Hans owned and operated several gas and service stations. In his varied career, which included time in the Okanagan, he was a resort owner, land developer and electrician. In all his business endeavours, Hans was widely respected for his honesty, skills and hard work.
Hans is survived by his wife of 78 years, Norah, and his four sons: Morris (Victoria), David (Comox), Donald (Vancouver) and Rick (Kamloops). Missing him also will be his five grandchildren: Kirsten, Peter, Tim, Ellen, Madeline and five great grandchildren, Isabella, Theodore (Teddy), Grace, Oskar and Jack. Hans will be greatly missed by family and friends for his strong support of family, generosity, wise advice and sense of humour.