CRAIG/FLAGLER PALMS FUNERAL HOME
511 Old Kings Road
Flagler Beach, Florida

Vincent Joseph Oddi Jr.
MAY 4, 1929 – JANUARY 4, 2019



It is with great sadness that the family of Vincent Joseph Oddi, Jr., 89, announces his passing on Friday, January 4th, 2019 at his home in Palm Coast, Florida surrounded by his family. He was born on May 4, 1929 at the family home in Columbus, Ohio.

Vince was a first generation Italian-American and was very proud of his Italian heritage. Vince attended Ohio State University for two years and then enlisted in the United States Army where he served with distinction for 27 years. He later graduated from the University of Omaha with a Bachelor’s Degree in Military Sciences and also completed the Army's Command and General Staff College and the Army War College.

While stationed at Indiantown Gap Military Reservation in Pennsylvania, Vince met and married his beloved wife of 56 years, Joanne Elizabeth Shaak.

Vince was a proud veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and was an infantry officer who courageously embodied the Infantry motto of “Follow Me!”. Vince retired at the rank of Colonel and was awarded many of the Army’s highest commendations for his bravery, dedication and outstanding service, including the Silver Star (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the Legion of Merit (4 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star, the Air Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Commendation Medal (2 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Combat Infantry Badge and the Purple Heart. Vince was also inducted into the U.S. Army Infantry Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame in 1975.

Upon retiring from the military in 1977, Vince and Joanne built their home in Palm Coast, Florida and spent the next 32 years enjoying their time together. They were involved in local community activities and organizations, traveling, antiquing, daily swims in their pool and the Florida lifestyle.
Following Joanne's passing in 2009, Vince enjoyed the times spent with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Vince will be lovingly remembered by his three children, Patricia (Mike) Adam, Deborah Azcuy and Peter (Sherry) Oddi. Vince will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Daniel, Audrey, Ashley, Catherine, Kristen and Christopher; his great-grandchildren, Alex, Joshua, Leah, Tommie, Harper and Grace; and his nieces, nephews and cousins. Vince was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joanne; his parents, Vincenzio and Margherita (Costanzo) and his nine brothers and sisters, Cesido, Jesse (Grace), Frank (Margaret), Anna (Angelo), Dora (Frank), Leo (Ruth), Levia, Levio (Nona), and Tony.

Vince’s family would like to extend their gratitude and special thanks to Granny Nannies. Each of the caregivers lovingly provided daily care and support for Vince. The family also wants to recognize the Florida Hospital Hospice Care team. Their comprehensive support enabled Vince to fulfill his desire to remain in his home until his passing.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, January 11, 2019 from 10:00-11:00AM at the Craig Flagler Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 511 Old Kings Road S., Flagler Beach, FL. The funeral service will begin at 11:00AM with Chaplain Cecil Earl Glanville officiating. Interment will follow the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the Florida Hospital Hospice Care