Chief Obaro Waridhowo Odu entered this world on September 9, 1960, in Oleh, a city in Isoko south, Delta State, Nigeria to Vincent and Ekoko Cecilia Odu. He was the only son of four children of his parents.
With the guidance of his parents, Obaro accepted Christianity at a very young age. His parents instilled great Christian values- to believe in God, work hard, and the importance of education in him and his siblings. Obaro strongly believed in God, hard work and to be very diligent in everything he set his mind to do. He received a very good early education.
After he completed high school, he served in the military in Nigeria between the age of 18 and 20 years old. Then he went to the University of Lagos, Nigeria, where he received his first Bachelor’s Degree. In the United States, Obaro received another Bachelor’s Degree and Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration from the University of Colorado.
Obaro always said he was a citizen of the world. Born in Nigeria, he went on to live in Italy for three years, Japan for six years, and the United States for 31 years.
He lived in several states in the U.S. He met and married Angela Winston. In this union they had one child Efemona Amber Odu. He later met and married Veronica Ward. In this union they had two daughters, Emonena Alexa Odu and Eroji Jojo Odu.
He was an active community leader. He was the former President of the Isoko Association of Houston, Texas, USA. He was also the immediate past President General of the Isoko Association of North America. The Isoko Association is a cultural club for the advancement and enrichment of the cultural values of the people from the Isoko communities in Nigeria living in North America including Canada.
He was a founding member of the Noble Club International of Houston, Texas, USA. The Noble Club is a non-profit organization whose objectives are to promote unity in diversity, to enhance the lives of members, to promote social activities, to support each other, participate in community activities affecting the club members, to recognize and respect the subtle differences which exist within members and support each other’s culture and tradition.
Obaro was employed with AmeriGroup Corporation when he peacefully passed away on January 20th, 2023. He was a dedicated employee and very passionate about his job.
One of Obaro’s biggest accomplishments was being a father, he loved his girls and he loved spending time with them. He was always there for them through their ups and downs, and taught them to cherish each other and hold one another close. He instilled strong Christian values in his children, and emphasized the importance of education.
He was preceded in death by his father Vincent Odu, mother Ekoko Cecilia Odu, and Son Isaiah Odu. His legacy and memories will be carried forward by his remaining daughters Ewoma Cynthia (son-in-law- Henry Iviero), Efemona Amber Odu, Emonena Alexa Odu, Ejiro Alexandria Odu, and two granddaughters, Oghenerukome Iviero & Aroriwoghene Iverio.
He would be missed by his three sisters: Toli, Mary, Rose, and his half-brothers. He would also be missed by Angela and Veronica (former wives), uncles, nephews, nieces, relatives, association/club members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers.
Obaro, words cannot express the sadness in our hearts, you have always been a blessing in your daughters, granddaughters, and the entire family’s lives. You were a guiding force enlightening your daughters learning to love God, love their families, work hard, and be exemplary citizens. Death took you away from us, but we believe you are in a better place with God, and you will always remain in our hearts.
