June 7, 1965 – October 8, 2015
Ken Mele Odette, 50, passed away on October 9, 2015, due to complications from a massive heart attack. His parents, Ray P. and Rose Mele Odette, were thrilled to welcome their third son into the world on June 7, 1965, in Monticello.
He is survived by his loving mom; his dear partner of 13+ years, Dave Kobeski of Washington, D.C., and their beloved dog, Brewster; and his siblings Ray (Michelle Astin) Odette, Dan (Becky Morgan) Odette of St. George and Sue (Ercel) Odette Johnson of Salt Lake City. He is also survived by his seven nieces and nephews, whom he was generous to a fault with and adored — Jordan, Brayden, Madeleine, Carly, Alex, Annie and Sophie. He is preceded in death by his much loved and missed dad, Ray P. Odette.
Ken graduated from Dixie High School in St. George in 1983. He attended Utah State University in Logan where he was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. He graduated with a degree in political science. His love of politics led him to Washington, D.C., where he worked for various lobbyist organizations.
Ken found that his creative side was neglected in the political arena and after many years, totally switched careers to become a licensed cosmetologist, where his creative side thrived. His love of curly hair and certification in the DevaCurl method of cutting it drew him much praise, some lengthy hugs, a few tears of joy and many devoted clientele.
Ken had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed making everyone laugh with his quick wit. One always knew where they stood with Ken, and he was never shy about expressing his opinion. He loved to argue politics with his oldest brother to the amusement of his family members.
He enjoyed watching football, reading, traveling, good food, fine wine and intelligent conversation with friends and family. He was a superb tour guide whenever anyone visited him in D.C. as he knew the Washington, D.C., area extensively. His love for dogs is well known and he had canine companions his entire adult life.
Ken’s favorite place was Zion National Park where he loved to hike, like his dad. Being there was always a spiritual experience for Ken, and in recent years he went there to talk with and feel the presence of his cherished dad. His final dream was to one day move back to St. George with Dave so that he could be closer to the family and park he loved so much. We are saddened that will never be, and none of our lives will ever be the same without Ken.
We are forever grateful to the cardiologists and staff in the ICU unit of the MedStar Washington Hospital Center in D.C. for doing all they could do to try and save our beloved Ken and for taking such phenomenal care of him in his final days. Their superb care, kindness, sympathy and understanding are greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.
Funeral Services
- Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m., at the St. George Catholic Church, 259 W. 200 North, St. George.
- A visitation will be held Friday, 6-8 p.m. with a rosary at 5:30 p.m. at Metcalf Mortuary, 288 W. St. George Blvd., St. George.
- Interment will be in Tonaquint Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, 435-673-4221. Please visit the Metcalf Mortuary website for condolences.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Humane Society of Utah, P.O. Box 573659, Murray, Utah, 84157, 801-506-2405 or www.utahhumane.org.