James Earl O'Dea

James "Jimmy" Earl O'Dea, age 74, of Hammond, IN, went to join the love of his life Jackie O’Dea on Friday, September 16, 2022.

Jim was a proud Marine whose life was forever changed and molded by his time spent in Vietnam. Jim continued to show his respect for his fellow soldiers by serving as commander of VFW post 9982 in Griffith Indiana for over a decade. He was a lifelong member of the VFW and American Legion along with other local clubs and organizations. Jim had the luck of the Irish when it came to all games and in his early years it was pool, darts and bowling that he excelled at; and later golf became a true passion. Through his love of games, he was able to spend time with his “brothers” no matter the game, even pull tabs, whether the wager was a shot of Jack Daniels or hitting the coveted $599, he always walked away a winner. Jim was at his happiest on 2 wheels or 18 wheels. His motorcycle gave him peace and freedom and his “big truck” gave him pride and the ability to provide for his family. He was a skilled truck driver that could park his “big truck” in your shirt pocket he would often say. He loved the brotherhood of that occupation; not to mention how many stranded souls he gave directions to due to his knowledge of mile markers.

The twinkle in his eye will be carried on by his three surviving daughters he loved fiercely: Shannon Lee (Jason), Kelly Denise (Jon), Erin Chivon (Jake); his beloved siblings: Sheila Jean (Larry) Minton, Mary Ruth Sarter, Jerry Edward (Carol) Hayes, Kathy Renee (Frank) Dunlap; his cherished grandchildren: Ryan Beckwith (Sam), Jaxon Weston, Jillian Jaeger, Wayne Peach (Nerea), James Bornick; adored great grandson, Jaxson Peach; and his many treasured nieces and nephews. He was preceded in passing by his loving mother, Irene (nee Cummins) Bean; his father, Neil O'Dea; siblings: Beverly Marek, Bertie Munsie, Donna Munsie, Ronnie O’Dea, John O’Dea, Tom O’Dea, Rich O’Dea, Mike O’Dea, Bob O’Dea, Noreen (O’Dea) Dall.

A Funeral Service will take place at LaHayne Funeral Home located at 6955 Southeastern Avenue Hammond, IN 46324 on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, at 1:00 PM with Pastor James Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Hammond, IN. Friends are invited to visit with the family on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, from 11:00 AM until the time of service at 1:00 PM.

For questions regarding services please call LaHayne Funeral Home at 219/845-3600.

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