Obituary of Oden Raymond Alreck

Oden Ode' Raymond Alreck, 89 years, passed away on May 1, 2018 at the family home in Knife River following nine days of home hospice care. Born October 14, 1928 in Duluth to Austin and Cora Alreck, he grew up in their home in Woodland. He enlisted in the US Army at the age of 17 serving in Texas as a Supply Sergeant. Following military service, he returned to Duluth and began his career as a carpenter. He was a member of the Carpenters Union Local 361 for 68 years. Oden married his sweetheart, Joanne Katherine Skadberg in 1950 and settled in Joanne's hometown of Knife River where they raised two daughters. Forming the Knife River Construction Company, Oden built many local residences and commercial buildings. After being issued a license by the US Coast Guard as captain with 100 ton rating, Ode more avidly pursued his avocation of fishing including commercial fishing on Lake Superior at Isle Royale, Michigan. Oden was active in civic boards and projects in his beloved community of Knife River including recreational site development. Oden's four siblings, Leroy, Chester, Ellie (Harry) Straw and Bev (Richard) Spencer preceded him in death. Oden is survived by his wife, Joanne; daughters, Randi Alreck and Sue (Dave) Thomas; grandchildren, Eric Swendsen and Jennifer (Johan) Dorman; three nieces and five nephews Memorial service will be at Knife River Lutheran Church in Knife River, MN on Saturday, May 5 at 11:00 am.