Odell J. Ziebarth, 80, Minot, formerly of the Balfour-Drake area, died Monday, September 29, 2008 in a Minot Hospital.

Odell was born May 4, 1928 on the family farm, northeast of Balfour, North Dakota, the son of William and Elizabeth (Koeppe) Ziebarth. He was raised and educated at Balfour and later attended Wahpeton State School of Science. Odell helped his brother, Walter, in the spring and fall on the family farm until Walter retired. Odell honorably served his country in the Army's 48th Anti-aircraft infantry and was stationed as a first cook in Germany, where he received the rank of corporal during the Korean War.

Odell returned to North Dakota and was united in marriage to Ardis Qvammen on October 11, 1958 at Leeds, North Dakota. They were blessed with two children, Robert and Mary. Odell began his employment with I Keating Furniture World in 1956, working in the carpet department as a salesman, until his retirement in 1992.

Odell enjoyed cooking and baking. He had the gift of hospitality. He always welcomed company and insisted they stay for coffee. He was known for his homemade soups and pies. He loved being with people and visiting. He made friends wherever he went. Odell was a very talented builder and remodeled several homes. He enjoyed deer and bird hunting. He looked forward to the fellowship and story-telling, which came with each hunt.

Odell was a longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church, Minot, where he was active as an usher, and helped serve many lutefisk dinners. He was a member of the Minot American Legion and was a former member of the Minot Eagles Aerie and Elks Lodge #1089. Odell was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved to spend time at his daughter and son-in-law's farm, near Glenburn, working and driving combine alongside his granddaughters. May God bless the memory of Odell. He will forever be in our hearts.

His loving family includes: Wife of forty-nine years, Ardis; Daughter: Mary (Jamie) Routledge, Minot; Son: Robert Ziebarth, Minot; Grandchildren: Meta and Elsa Routledge; Brother: Walter Ziebarth, Balfour, ND; Sister: Ardyce Keller, Bakersfield, CA, several nieces and nephews.

Odell was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Clarence and Art Ziebarth and sister, Dorthy Ziebarth.

Funeral service : Saturday, October 4, 2008 at 11:00a.m. in Zion Lutheran Church, Minot
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot
Visitation : Friday from 2:00-7:00pm in the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.