Edward "Eddie" Frederick Odau, 78, died Thursday, Feb. 13th, 2003, following a lengthy illness at his home in Salinas, CA.

Mr. Odau graduated from Sheboygan High School in 1941 and completed trade school in Chicago in 1943. In June of the same year, he enlisted in the US NAVY, where he was a radio specialist on the heavy cruiser, USS SALT LAKE CITY, during the South Pacific engagements during WWII. He was in the Navy until Sept. 1945.

He worked as a certified soft water specialist for Service Soft Water Co.

He was an active member of the Salinas Moose Lodge No. 1165 since he moved there in 1952. He served on the organization's board of officers for many years, and graduated to the higher degree of Fellowship for his volunteer work and community service.

He was also a member of Post 31 of the American Legion, the SIRS of Salinas and the Salinas Stamp Club, and a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Edward was an avid stamp collector nearly all his life. He enjoyed donating stamps from his collection to the Church of Good Shepherd, which helps bind children worldwide.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Bobbie Gene, of Salinas, three daughters, Carmen, Stella & Karla, one sister, Dolores and 12 grandchildren.

He was buried with military honors in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Salinas, CA.

No family contact at this time. If you knew Edward during his SLC days, please contact Sandy Eskew, Historian, with details. Thank you.