Olav G. Ødegård

Olav G. Ødegård was born in Eiken, Norway, to Karl and Ingeborg Ødegård, a farmer, lumberjack, nad sheep herder. Olav served in the Norwegian military, including time spent at the palace as a member of the Royal Guard.

Olav emigrated in 1965, arriving first in New York. Once arrived, Olav learned the flooring business and was also a talented ‘finishing’ carpenter. Olav eventually made his way to Fargo through his connection to Norwegian – American acquaintances, residing on the north side near parks and schools and the university.

At the Sons of Norway he was called Olav. He was known by many by just his first name. He joined Sons of Norway Kringen Lodge in 1995 and found his place in a family of friendly Norwegians.

A man of few words, Olav was a gentle and kind man. His heavy brogue and hearing difficulty made conversations sparse but he was always eager to share his love of the heritage. He was interested in others’ connection with his Norwegian homeland and wanted to hear about those connections and heritage.

Olav was always up for an adventure. Few people have gone on as many Sons of Norway tours and Conventions. Everything from tours of a Fjord Horse Farm with the youth to Holiday tours in Minneapolis. He attended conventions throughout North Dakota, Montana and Canada. Always a willing worker, Olav was there to lend a hand and help wherever he was needed. He spent time at Kringen enjoying the camaraderie he found there and participating in social and cultural events. He will be missed by his many friends.

Olav is survived by a brother Ånen, and sisters Kari, Anna, and Ågot, all in Norway, along with many nieces and nephews.

Burial will be in his native Norway.