Mr. Gary Robert Oden's Obituary
Gary Robert Oden of Harpers Ferry, WV passed away on September 4, 2023, with his immediate family by his side.
Born November 2, 1942 in Olney, MD, Gary was the son of the late William and Ronella Oden. Gary graduated from Richard Montgomery High School in Rockville, MD and enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served his country for over 20 years as a Military Policeman and was stationed at numerous bases both domestically and abroad. He retired with the rank of Sergeant First Class. After the military, Gary held various security roles at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD and the United States Supreme Court in Washington, DC. His final employment was with Marriott International.
Gary had a quiet and gentle disposition and was quick to love and forgive, especially with his family. He loved cars, stuffed animals, and classic oldies music; taking trips to the post exchange and commissary at Fort Detrick; and the occasional evening brandy. He was an avid reader, especially of mystery and military history books, and he enjoyed playing solitaire. He was also very handy in the kitchen, with his Thanksgiving stuffing considered by many to be the best they’ve ever had. He spoiled his family, especially for birthdays and Christmas.
Gary is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Debra and Joshua Hess of Richmond, VA; his sister, Brenda D. Oden of Harpers Ferry, WV; his grandsons, Hendrix and Hayes Hess of Richmond, VA; his former wife Jean Oden of Martinsburg, WV; and many other relatives and friends.
Services will be held on Thursday, September 14 at Resthaven Funeral Home, 9501 Catoctin Mountain Hwy, Frederick, MD. There will be a viewing at 12:30 pm and the funeral service will commence at 1:00 pm. Interment will follow in Resthaven Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, Gary’s family would ask that you please consider making a donation in his memory to the American Diabetes Association or of stuffed animals to a children’s charity of your choosing.
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