May 19, 2010
Eleanor (Wills) Odegard passed away peacefully at the Golden Years Adult care Home in Vancouver, Washington. Eleanor was 87 years-old when she departed of cancer. She lived in her own home until March 1, 2010. A dearly loved mother, wife, and friend, Eleanor was always full of energy and enthusiasm, “Eleanor was a kind spirit, and always cheerful no matter what the situation,” said Erik, her son of 45 years, “always looking at what she could accomplish in life or how she could help someone.”
Born at home in Milaca Minnesota on December 7, 1922 to Petra and Charles Wills, Eleanor resided in Minnesota and married Philip Odegard on October 14, 1961. After the marriage, Phil and Eleanor moved to Portland, Oregon where they lived for 3 years and had a son, Erik Odegard, and soon afterward moved across the river to Vancouver, Washington. Eleanor is survived by her husband Phil and son Erik in Vancouver, and brother James Wills in Minnesota as well as her beloved cat and faithful companion of ten years, Jasmine.
Eleanor enjoyed being outdoors with her family and went on a great many camping and huckleberry picking trips, continuing through her later years, including her last huckleberry-picking trip when she was 86. Eleanor enjoyed gardening and feeding wild birds in her yard over her entire life. She was also a dedicated volunteer with the American Red Cross and was named local Volunteer of the Year in 1994 after over a decade of service.
Eleanor wished to be cremated after her passing and have her friends celebrate her life in their hearts and memories rather than take part in a formal service.