Meryla (Merle) Ada Odden was born Nov. 23, 1924 in Sydney, Australia. The daughter of Harry and Ada Smalden, she had one sibling, her brother Harry.
Merle's life changed dramatically when she met John Odden, an American serviceman who was stationed in Sydney. The couple married and, in their first years of marriage, welcomed sons Robert and Keith.
Upon John's discharge from the U.S. Army, the young family moved to North Dakota. Their first home was in Berwick. Over the next few years, the Odden family grew to include son David and daughter Maureen. John and Merle put down roots in Rugby where they reared their children.
The Odden home soon became a gathering place for family, extended family and friends. Many meals were shared, countless cups of coffee were served and much laughter was shared around the kitchen table.
Merle's greatest passion in life was caring for her family. She especially enjoyed spending time with children – all children – and she was affectionately known by many as "Auntie Merle."
She is survived by her son Robert of Evanston, Wyoming, daughter-in-law Jackie Odden of Minot and son David (Cheryl) of Garrison. She will be missed by her grandchildren Brady Odden, Tandi Odden, Kylie Cooke, Christopher Odden, Sara Odden, Leah Odden (Derek Radke) and Robin Throw. Her loved ones include great-grandchildren Randie Odden, Joshua Cooke, Amber Cooke, Kaia Radke and Gabriel Radke.
At the time of her death, Merle was a resident of Garrison. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, her husband of almost 60 years, her son Keith and daughter Maureen. She was also preceded by her friend Gwen Baddeley,
While growing up in Australia, Merle and Gwen became friends and formed a lifelong bond that continued throughout their lives. Even though they were later separated by an ocean, the two eventually had grandchildren and great-grandchildren in common.
Merle's life will be celebrated Tuesday, Aug. 28 during a 1 pm service at Thompson Funeral Home, Garrison. Visitation will begin at noon. Merle will be laid to rest next to her husband at the Garrison City Cemetery.