Reynold L. Novotny

Reynold L. Novotny, 94, of Odell, passed away at St. Elizabeth hospital Tuesday afternoon, November 1, 2016. He was born December 23, 1921 in Dodge, Nebraska to Rudolph and Mary Novotny, and was a 1939 graduate of Odell High School. During his high school years he worked for Dr. Rice driving trucks and where he developed his interest in welding.

Reynold served his country in the United State Army Air Force from 1942 to 1946. Serving in the Aleutian Islands and Iwo Jima, repairing combat airplanes. While stationed in Fresno, California AReynold and Ruby (Opfer) were married on May 24, 1944. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Ruby, 2009, a brother, and brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws.

In 1946, after completing his military service with the rank of Sergeant, Reynold received his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army Air Force. He then returned home to Odell where he and Ruby shared all their married life and where they raised their five children – Ronald (Jean), Richard (Jean), Renae, and the twins Rondra (Robert) and Rodney.

Reynold and his brother operated the Phillips 66 gas station and welding shop for 45 years.

Reynold loved his family, kids, grandkids, great and great great grandkids. Interest overtime included: bank and trout line fishing; deer hunting; raising chinchillas; raising chickens, ducks, and geese; making wines from numerous sources; rental landlord; and school board member. He also dug out the basement of his house ---- by hand!!!, was a skilled blacksmith and welder, and loved traveling with his family - trips included east coast, Alaska twice, and Colorado numerous times.

Reynold was a good friend and neighbor to many, and especially a wonderful family man. Also, his enjoyment was his long car rides out in the country.

Services will be Saturday, November 5, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Odell, with Pastor Greg Stuckwisch officiating. Burial will be in Odell Czech Cemetery. Vance-Gerdes Funeral Home in Fairbury is in charge of arrangements.