Michael Robert O'Dell

Our family wishes to share the peaceful passing of Michael Robert O’Dell, beloved husband of 50 years to Dianne O’Dell, which occurred on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Michael was born in Saint John on April 4, 1950, to the late John and Doris (Connolly) O’Dell.Following the passing of his mother, Mike was welcomed into the loving family of his aunt and uncle, the late Kaye and Bill Holland, his honorary parents. 

Michael dedicated his life to education, service, and family. A respected and inspiring instructor at the New Brunswick Community College, his career spanned 34 years. During that time, he was recognized with an Award of Excellence in Education for his pioneering work in the development of distance education for Nursing Assistants. Beyond the classroom, he served as an Educational Consultant and Board Member for the Licensed Practical Nursing Association, always striving to uplift others through learning and mentorship.

Following his retirement, Michael continued his calling of service with the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception (SCIC) at Ruth Ross, where he was deeply loved and made many great friends among both the Sisters and staff. He often said it was the “perfect job and ministry.”

Service to others was a cornerstone of Michael’s life. He gave generously of his time and heart to numerous community organizations, including Outflow Men’s Shelter, Lakewood Headstart, Lancaster Minor Basketball Association, and All Hands and Hearts Disaster Relief during Hurricane Florence. Michael believed wholeheartedly that a meaningful life begins with respect for everyone—and he lived that belief daily, greeting each person he met with genuine kindness and acknowledgment.

Above all else, Michael’s greatest joy was his family. He often said that his children were his proudest accomplishment, and his love for them only grew as he became “Gramps” to his cherished grandchildren.

Michael is survived by his devoted wife Dianne, and their children: Liam (Lyndsay Lovely) O’Dell, Corey (Amy) O’Dell, Shannon (Wayne) Ferguson, and Alyson (Jonathan) Chouinard, along with his son-in-law Adam Caissie. He is also survived by his brother Donald (Patricia) O’Dell, sister Kathy (Brian) Munroe, and by Michael (Roxanne), Peter (Marina), and Carolyn (Allen Brown) Holland, with whom he shared a lifelong sibling bond. He leaves behind a very special aunt Nancy Arsenault along with ten beloved grandchildren: Maria (Tie), Matthew, Maddy, Emelia, Eloise, Ollie, Myles, Jake, Elliott, and Luke along with several cousins, nieces and nephews. 

Michael was predeceased by his parents, aunt and uncle Kaye and Bill; his son Kirk O’Dell; daughter Meghan Caissie; brother John O’Dell; sister Patricia Wood; dear friends Terry MacNeill and David Murray; and his faithful canine companions Oscar and Jade.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road (506-646-2424). Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 5:00–8:00 p.m., and will continue on Thursday, February 5 from 2:00–7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 6 at 12:00 noon at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 4347 Loch Lomond Road. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

For those unable to attend the Mass, you can join the family virtually by clicking here. Please note, while we make every attempt to stream in real time, off-site livestreaming can be unpredictable. If there are issues with the stream, a recording will be available following the Mass by using the same link above. 

Michael’s legacy of compassion, respect, and unwavering dedication to others will live on in the countless lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions towards the Meghan Caissie Scholarship Fund, Sophia Recovery Centre or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.