Charles August O’Dell, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, was lovingly taken home to the arms of his Heavenly Father on August 8th, 2025. Charles passed from this life surrounded by his loving family.

Charles was born June 12th, 1937 in Lethbridge, Alberta, the oldest son of Charles Ephraim and Marie Stachofski O’Dell.

He was raised in Picture Butte, AB and learned to work alongside his brother and four sisters.

At 20, Charles came to BC and loved the land so much he decided to stay and make it his home. He met the love of his life, Darla Orth, and after two years of courtship they were married July 11th, 1959. Darla and Charles celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary this past July.

Charles and Darla would eventually welcome four wonderful children into their lives. In 1966, Charles and Darla bought property on King Street, where Charles would build his bride their lifelong home.

Charles loved being a dad. He taught his children the importance of hard work, to serve God and their fellowman, to cherish family, and to laugh.

He loved the outdoors. He loved to hunt and to fish. He enjoyed days on the lake in his boat, camping, and just being in the bush—a love that he instilled in his children.

Charles had a wonderful sense of humor. He loved people, and he treasured the many visits from friends and family over the years. He loved to play cards and to be with the people he loved.

In 1976, Charles started his own business, Kootenay Feed & Farm. He got great joy in serving his customers and meeting and helping people. So many became lifelong friends.

In his lifetime, Charles worked in many different capacities. There wasn’t anything he hadn’t done or couldn’t do in the eyes of his family.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sisters Laura, Mae and Audrey, and his brother, Dale.

His life is honored today and forever by his wife, Darla, his children: Kerry (Howard) Alaric of Cranbrook, Katherine (Steven) Yadernuk of Fruitvale, Ken (Catherine) O’Dell of Cranbrook and Kora (James) Busboom of Ogden, Utah. 20 grandchildren and 24, soon to be 25 great grandchildren-and his 1 surviving sister, Charlotte Anderson of Edmonton. He was a man larger than life. His greatest joy, pride and legacy is his family.

A small private gathering for family was held Saturday, August 9th.

The family would like to thank and acknowledge all those who have taken such special care of Charles these last weeks and months. Also, a special word of thanks to Dave, Dean and Arie whose friendship and companionship has been a cherished blessing.

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