Obituary

William Joseph (Bill) Odlum passed away on December 24, 2017 from complications due to brain cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. He was born on March 28th 1934 in Boston, MA and was raised in New London, CT. He attended the University of Connecticut, graduated in 1955, and moved to Southern California to take a job with Hughes Aircraft Company. While at Hughes he received a Master’s Degree from USC and completed his 37 year career with their Ground Systems Group in Fullerton.

As a resident of Villa Park, CA, he served as a Planning Commissioner, City Councilman, and even as Mayor. While living in Laguna Beach, CA, he served for 10 years in their “Citizens on Patrol” Program.

Bill was a talented carpenter and woodworker who volunteered his skills with Habitat for Humanity. He made beautiful furniture and could fix nearly anything. He piloted single engine aircraft and sailed catamarans and monohull sailboats. He also loved to ski at Mammoth, golf, and dine out in great local restaurants. Upon retiring, Bill enjoyed traveling the world with his wife of 26 years, Ann. He kept us entertained with his dry wit right up until the very end!

Bill is survived by his wife, Ann, and his three children from his previous marriage: Patricia Odlum (Don Yovanovich), James Odlum (Rita), and Colleen Murray (John). He has four grandchildren: Nicole and Sabrina Odlum (James), and Jack and Aidan Murray (Colleen). He also has two step-children: Roger Green (Sandra) and Diane Green, and two step-grandchildren: Catelyn (Sandra), and Denim Verona (Diane).

Services will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial gift to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.