Michael Ross Oddo

1957 - 2018

Michael Ross Oddo

Moorpark, CA

Age 60, died January 12 in Thousand Oaks, California. Michael died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family: parents, Ronald and Shirley Pitts Oddo, brother Ronald, (Kelly), sister Lori Dodes, devoted partner, Jeanie Ryan, nieces Alix and Madison Oddo, and nephew Tyler Dodes. Michael is preceded in death by his nephew Trevor Dodes.

Michael was born on August 2,1957 in Austin, Texas. The son of an Air Force pilot, Michael grew up in Greece before the family moved to California in 1969. He trained in gymnastics, winning the Los Angeles City Championships before he headed to London to study at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. Michael was multi-talented and intellectually curious; his gifts ranged from athletic to artistic.

He appeared in over 50 stage productions in Southern California, including 35 Shakespearean roles at the Globe Playhouse in West Hollywood. He was a charter member of the Shakespeare Society of America and a founding member of the Twelfth Night Repertory Company, one of the largest school touring organizations in the country.

Michael's other passions included reading, martial arts, fencing, archery, all weaponry, and moto-cross racing. His multiple skills were invaluable in his role as Camp Lead at "Burning Man" each year.

He worked many years behind the lens in the Motion Picture industry, and most recently, as a Dolly Grip in the TV industry. "News Radio", "Just Shoot Me", "Yes, Dear", and "2 Broke Girls" were shows enhanced by his deft touch with the dolly.

He sustained his creative vision through painting, mixing his own blend of oils and building his own frames. He sold his distinctive black, white, and red paintings on Venice Beach boardwalk and they were appreciated by patrons worldwide.

A lover of animals, he rescued kittens on the freeway and skunks under the porch. He volunteered at "Wildlife Waystation" and sponsored many sanctuary animals, including elephants, leopards, lions and tigers.

However, what distinguished Michael Ross Oddo, even more than his accomplishments and bottomless talent, was his singular character. His kindly nature, warmth, and good humor, combined with a quick and fierce wit, birthed a force of nature that will never be duplicated, and will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Michael's Life will be held Saturday, Jan. 27 at Tokiwa Japanese Restaurant in Moorpark, from 12-2:30pm. The family would welcome hearing your memories of Michael.

For those who wish to honor Michael, the family thanks you for any donation made to a charity of your choice.