Obituary of Louis Odette

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 18, 2011. He is deeply missed by his wife of 62 years, Patricia Sunstrum, and by his children Louis (Ellen), Paul, Marc (Lynn) and Francine. He leaves his brother Edmond and was predeceased by his parents Louis and Emma Odette and his two sisters Betty and Shirley. Affectionately known as "Bud", he was a man of big ideas. After serving overseas with the Canadian Forces, he returned home and in 1951 he founded Eastern Construction Limited. Together with his brother Edmond they guided an outstanding group of professionals for over 50 years. Bud was the consummate salesman and had a wonderful way with people. Eastern Construction grew to become one of Canada's most prominent and respected general contractors. He was always so very proud of the company's employees and their accomplishments. Still thriving today, Eastern Construction continues to have a reputation throughout the industry that stands for integrity, professionalism, quality and safety. Roy Thomson Hall and the CBC Broadcast Center in Toronto are only two of many landmark projects Eastern Construction completed across Canada. A passionate, personal admiration of the art of sculpture led him to collaborate with various groups and artists to develop the Toronto Sculpture Garden, the Odette Sculpture Park in Windsor, and the Centre for Sculpture at York University which is recognized as one of the finest facilities of its kind in North America. Concerned to see the homeless living on the streets, he strongly supported The United Way of Toronto in many of their projects. In 1964 Bud was made a Knight of Malta and he received the Order of Canada in 1997. Not wanting to be seen flaunting these honours, he always had to be reminded to wear his awards on special occasions. When he did find time to relax, he found great pleasure in spending time with his family and good friends - golfing, playing tennis and particularly boating on Lake Ontario. He leaves his grandchildren Louis, Julie, William Luke, Matthew and Jacqueline and step-grandchildren Jordan and Holly. He is survived by many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME - A.W. MILES CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 25. A private funeral will be held. Special thanks to his caregivers, Victoria Pelego and Marion Smith and to the very competent staff at Sunnybrook Veterans Residence. Donations can be made to the Alzeheimer's Society of Canada, 20 Eglinton Ave. West, 16th Floor, Toronto M4R 1K8, and would be appreciated.