Ken Mele Odette

Friday, Oct. 23, 2015

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ken Mele Odette, 50, died Oct. 9, 2015 due to complications from a massive heart attack.  

Odette was born June 7,  1965 in Monticello, the third son of Ray P. and Rose Mele Odette.  He 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, which led him to Washington, D.C., where he worked for various lobbyist organizations. He found that his creative side was neglected in the political arena and after many years, switched careers to become a licensed cosmetologist.

Odette had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed making everyone laugh with his quick wit; one always knew where they stood with him, 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 area extensively.  His love for dogs was well known and he had canine companions his entire adult life.  

His favorite place was Zion National Park, where he loved to hike, like his father. His final dream was to one day move back to St. George so that he could be closer to the family and park he loved so much.

Odette is survived by his mother; his partner of 13 years, Dave Kobeski of Washington, D.C.; his siblings, Ray (Michelle Astin) Odette and Dan (Becky Morgan) Odette of St. George, and Sue (Ercel) Odette Johnson of Salt Lake City; and seven nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Ray P. Odette. 

Funeral services were held in St. George Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested  to the Humane Society of Utah, P.O. Box 573659, Murray, Utah, 84157, or www.utahhumane.org.