Dennis James O'Dell

Dennis James O’Dell a beloved grandfather and friend known by many as a jack of all trades, passed away on October 12, 2025, at The University of Kansas Health Systems-Kansas City, Kansas. Born on May 30th, 1954, in Wellington, Kansas.

The Son of Mack Odell Jr. and Mabel (Frambers) Gill, Dennis lived his entire life to the fullest. Marrying Stephanie (Goff) O’Dell in the mid 1980’s. Moving to Paola, Kansas in 1992 they spent a majority of their careers in service for Miami County Administration Office where he took great pride in being the Maintenance Director until both retired together 2019. After retirement they enjoyed time with grandchildren and great friends at Hillsdale Lake where Dennis began volunteering his time at the lake in the summers.

Dennis had a passion for the outdoors, music, and good company. Dennis found pure joy in time spent with the little hearts that called him grandpa. His mornings were not complete until he finished his crossword and third cup of coffee.

Dennis was a man who’s love inspired, whose passion ignited others, and whose hard work and determination built a legacy that will never fade.

Dennis is preceded by death by his wife Stephanie Goff O’Dell. His father Mack O’Dell.

He is survived by his mother Mabel Gill. Brothers Donald O’Dell (Jennie O’Dell) & David O’Dell. Grandson Andrew Chapman (Brianna Chapman) Great Grandchildren Emersyn & Everett Chapman. Stepdaughter Angela Cresse Grand Daughters Shelby & Samantha Cresse. and many loving nieces and nephews.

May he rest in peace, surrounded by those who went before him, and the love and joy that live on in every heart he touched.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Dengel & Son Mortuary-Paola Chapel from 6:00pm to 7:30pm. A graveside will take place at Prairie Lawn Cemetery in Wellington, KS, on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 12:00pm.

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