Patricia Odegard

Patricia (Pat) Odegard, 83, left this world on February 12, 2026, and is celebrating in Heaven with her family and friends who have passed before her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion and will be greatly missed.

Pat was born on July 17, 1942, in Nashville, Tennessee. She was the daughter of Margaret (Haslam) Walden and Ferris Walden and was one of eight siblings. She spent her childhood and early adulthood in Nashville, then moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, after meeting her husband, Don Odegard. They made their home in Cedar Rapids and were married for 57 years before Don passed in 2021.

They had two children, Deb and Tim, whom they raised with simple values and appreciation for friends, family, and hard work. The family took many trips to Nashville to visit her extended family and friends, creating many memories for all. Pat provided in-home childcare during the kids’ early years, then worked at Stamats Communications for many years until her retirement in 2013.

Pat was one of the most generous, warm people you could ever meet. She was always ready with a smile and a kind word, even for strangers. She saved homeless animals and gave many a new home. She took care of her friends and neighbors with her time, listening ear, and her treats – brownies, lemon poppyseed bread, and chocolate chip cookies were always shared and enjoyed.

Pat’s faith was a very important part of her life. She attended Central Church of Christ in Cedar Rapids for over 50 years and made many lifelong friends.

Most of all, Pat was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She gave her all to her kids – from reading to them daily from a young age, being our taxi to activities (including roller skating pick-ups at midnight in the middle of winter), and being present for our triumphs and trials. She adored her grandchildren and was a great influence in their lives. We are all better people for having known her.

Pat leaves behind her children, Deb Schmudlach (Ron) and Tim Odegard (Chelsea); grandchildren, Emma (Ben), Amy, and Adam; sisters, Barbara Thomas and Bettye Kirby; brothers, Jimmy (Jonell) Walden and Don (Ann) Walden; and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her beloved cat Ivy, who will be well cared for by family.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents, brothers, Jack Walden (June), Mickey Walden (Christine), and Ronnie Walden (Faye); and brothers-in-law, John Thomas and Larry Kirby

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, 1844 First Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, followed by a service at 1 p.m. Attire is casual.

Memorials are suggested to the Cedar Valley Humane Society or Central Church of Christ

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be available via livestream.  Please find the livestream link on this obituary page.