Ernie O’Dell, Sr., (known to many as Grandpa / Opa), passed away on September 28, 2024, at his daughter’s house, in the comfort of family and the care of Hospice of Orange County. He was 94 years old. Son of the late Clara (Judson) and Carl O’Dell, he was born at home in Salisbury Mills, NY, on May 1, 1930.
Ernie proudly served his country in the United States Army and was a Korean War Veteran. Thereafter, he worked for 25 years as a Park Foreman for the Palisades Interstate Park Commission. After a retirement break, Ernie joined the City of Middletown Police Department as a School Crossing Guard, where he spent 29 years on the corner by Presidential School. Always waving at cars and buses, he was known to have a smile for All.
Ernie was a Giants Football fan. He loved taking cruises, and celebrating the Fourth of July in Highland Falls, NY. His greatest love was for his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include his son Brian O’Dell and companion Patty Grundmann; daughter Colleen Solan and husband Bill; son Ernest O’Dell, Jr. and wife Annie Jo; and brothers: Carl O’Dell, Roger O’Dell, and Joseph O’Dell. Ernie leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Kimberly (Johnny), Sean (Brittany), Adam (Tanya), Zachary, and Robyn (Anthony); as well as his cherished great-grandchildren: Connor, Johnny, Christian, Mia, Isabella, Dominic, Rowan, and Bryce. He will also be remembered by the 14 additional great-grandchildren he was blessed with later in life, along with several nieces and nephews. His smiley face will be missed by many!
Ernie was predeceased by his loving wife of 56 years, Yvonne (Kleman) O’Dell, his grandson Patrick O’Dell, 3 sisters and 6 brothers.
Visitation was held from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at William F. Hogan Funeral Home, 135 Main St., Highland Falls, NY 10928. A Funeral Service began at 7 p.m.
Burial took place at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, October 4, 2024 at Orange County Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Goshen, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 391 Mount Hope Road, Middletown, NY 10940 or to the Highland Falls Fire Department, PO Box 170, Highland Falls, NY 10928.
Arrangements by William F. Hogan Funeral Home, (845) 446-2868 www.wfhoganfuneralhome.com.