Michael John O'Dell

Michael John O'Dell, age 52, died Friday, November 23, 2018 at Ascension St. John Hospital in Warren, Michigan. Michael was born December 21, 1965 in Royal Oak, Michigan, son of the late Glen O'Dell and the late Helen (nee: Duffy) O'Dell. Michael, who was also affectionately known as "Big Mike", grew up in Warren and attended Center Line High School, where he became a part of the graduating Class of 1985. When Mike was in the 3rd grade he developed a special bond with several classmates. One day while at school an older student was picking on one of Mike's friends... fortunately for both Mike's friend and the older student Mike politely explained there was no need to pick on his friend. Mike had a large presence and an even larger kind heart... he was a caring, loving, and gentle giant. Following his schooling, Mike was employed as a custodian with the Center Line School District, where he was a dedicated employee and devoted to the service of keeping the schools in "tip-top" shape. During Mike's youth and high school days he was a fierce competitor and football standout. Mike would have liked to play college football however fate would have different plans. Mike became the biggest Center Line football fan and cheerleader for his beloved team, along with being an ardent football fan. Away from the school and sports, Mike's other passions included sharing in his family gatherings, spending time with his beloved feline cat, "Monster", and hanging out with his friends. Mike was a loving son and brother, and was also a "Great Uncle". Never having children of his own, Mike poured his heart and soul into the lives of his nieces and nephew. Mike enjoyed each and every opportunity to spend time in their lives, making special memories, that he would later treasure. Mike will forever be remembered by the lives he has touched throughout his life, coupled with the unique and genuine imprint on each of their hearts he left. Mike was the dear brother of Pat (Kari) O'Dell, Peggy O'Dell, and the late Debbie O'Dell. He was the loving uncle of Ryan, Katie, Camryn, and further survived by his best friend Monster the cat and many other loving family members and friends.Visitation for Mike will be held on Tuesday from 3-9pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road) in Warren. A cemetery committal service will be held Wednesday 10:30 am at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy, Michigan. Donations are appreciated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis,TN 38105 (www.stjude.org),... or to the Michigan Humane Society, 30300 Telegraph Road, Suite 220, Bingham Farms, MI 48025. Please share memories of Mike at his memory book above.