Thank you to all who took the time to put together some great recollections and stories about Mitch Oddo. For those who knew Mitch, this will bring back a lot of memories about a unique guy who made a lasting impression on everyone, and did so many great things for the company and for the people he came in contact with.
For those who never knew Mitch, we hope you get an idea of why those who did will always remember him and have a soft spot in their hearts for the memory of Mitch. There were many sides to Mitch, as you can see by reflections his friends, family and work colleagues have shared in this tribute.
A LEADER
I have many great memories and fun stories about Mitch. Most of my stories sound better with a glass of wine or cocktail, so if anyone ever wants to talk, just look me up. There was the time I helped myself to a bottle of his finest red wines that he told me not to touch. A week later I mailed the cork to him with a note suggesting he try this wine someday. There was the time I opened the window on the top floor of the Hardware building in Salt Lake City and he had to grab his head to keep his hair from getting sucked out of the window. Then there were several times I missed sales or margin…. Well I can’t even type what happened then! The best story was when he caught me driving somewhere between Park City and Snowbird ski resort on a back road at 8,000 ft. on my way to work. Long story….But my best memory is how he trained me, challenged me and changed my career forever. I’m very thankful for being able to work for Mitch, survive and grow under his leadership. He made me and many others better men and women in many ways. I will never forget what he gave me.
Mike KoestlerA Mentor
Mitch was an amazing man. He brought me into the business in 1978. His guidance and extraordinary work ethics helped me to excel. He definitely was my driving force making me see things from a different perspective. Today, I am a strong and driven individual because of Mitch. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family - he is a man that will never be forgotten.
The following is a poem written by Mary Frye (1932) that I think sums it all up.
Do Not Stand At My Grave and Weep
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am a diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush.
Of quiet birds in circling flight
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!
Barbara Elias-BlankenshipAn Apprentice
It was hard to hear about the passing of Mitch. He always seemed like nothing could stop him! We worked together for almost 20 years in different capacities. For a short time Mitch reported to me as a Senior Buyer in liquor. I don't think Mitch actually believed I was his boss (or anyone was) but he humored me as best he could. I learned much from Mitch about the business of procurement.
I always remember his vendors sweating in the lobby prior to a meeting. He even invited me to a few of these meetings. Mitch knew the business inside and out and Osco benefited in many ways. Mitch was a born leader and was driven to succeed. He also had a soft humble side to him. He was always there to help someone and cared deeply for everyone around him. He will be missed.
Jim Young
Comments