John Frederick Ordal

URBANA – John Frederick Ordal, 73, of Urbana passed away at 7:27 p.m. Wednesday (July 20, 2016) at Presence Covenant Medical Center in Urbana.

He was born on June 18, 1943, in Chicago to Zakarias John and Dorothy Lenore (Munson) Ordal.

Throughout his life, John was known for his generous heart, always lending a helping hand to others. He showed up without being asked, bringing food, tools, skills and whatever was needed. He had a practical approach to life. People were more important to him than things.

He was born in Chicago but lived most of his life in central Illinois. He was a 1961 graduate of Urbana High School and attended both the North Dakota State School of Science and Parkland Community College.

He was a U.S. Army veteran, 517th Engineering Company and stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Campbell and Vietnam in 1965-66. As a combat engineer, he cleared roads of mines and hazards and rebuilt the roads. He was awarded the Purple Heart.

On his return, he lived in North Dakota and worked on cattle ranches. He married Linda Welch in 1969 and soon returned to Illinois where he worked for the University of Illinois and in construction, including work on the Clinton nuclear power plant and several pipeline projects.

Together, Linda and John had three children: James, Russell and Danyse.

John retired in 1996. He met Rosa Navas after Linda passed away in 1992 and they were married in 2007. Together they enjoyed travel, spending winter months in El Salvador and taking trips in the U.S. John cherished his newly extended family.

He was active in Central Labor Union No. 703, preparing food boxes and delivering to those in need.

John had a large garden with produce to share. He loved a good barbecue and enjoyed gatherings with food, drink and stories. He was an avid reader and lifelong learner.

John leaves behind his beloved wife Rosa, children James and Russell Ordal and Denise Robinson; siblings Tom, Carolyn and Mary Ordal; extended family Raphael and Alex Canas, Edith Peacock, 14 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Z. John and Dorothy Ordal.

In memory of John, please lend a helping hand to others. Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and his cremated remains will be scattered at a scenic beach in El Salvador.

Rortvedt Funeral Services & Crematory in Tilton is assisting the family. Online condolences may be offered at www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com.