Obituary of Mike Oder

Michael Lee Oder, beloved husband of Susie and father of Alex, passed away on July 21, 2025. Born in Shelbyville, Kentucky on August 5, 1954, Mike was the son of Frances Williams and Merritt Lee Oder. After graduating from Taylorsville High School, he went on to receive his B.A. from Transylvania University, his M.A. from Western Kentucky University, and his Rank 1 in Administration from Eastern Kentucky University, all of which helped prepare him for a lifetime dedicated to education. He taught and coached basketball at Spencer County High School (formerly Taylorsville High School), served as Principal of Frankfort High School, and retired after 12 years as Superintendent of the Frankfort Independent Schools. He loved taking trips to the boys state basketball tournament with his former players, relaxing on cruises, and playing golf, and would always be cheering for the Cincinnati Reds or the Kentucky Wildcats. As a member of the Kentucky Roadcats RV Club, Mike enjoyed travelling and tailgating to UK football games in his RV. A man of honor and integrity with unshakable faith, he was a member of the Church of the Ascension. Mike was married to his college sweetheart Susan Smith Oder in 1978, who he leaves behind to cherish his memory along with their daughter Alex Oder Amburgey (Matthew) and grandsons Jaidan and Kingston. Also surviving are his nephew Andy Oder (Ann), great-niece Meredith Willard (Zach) and great-niece Kristen Croxton (Jeremy) and great-great-nephews and niece Jackson, Eli, and Emery; and nephew Ken Oder (Paula), great-nephews Mackenzie Oder, and Allen Oder (Taylor), and great-great-niece Ruthie. He was preceded in death by his brother Jim Oder and niece Kelly Ferguson. A memorial service in celebration of Mike's life will be held at the Church of the Ascension at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, July 29th, what would have been his and Susie's 47th wedding anniversary. Visitation will begin at 3:00 pm. Contributions in Mike's memory are suggested to Bluegrass Parkinson's Alliance or the Church of the Ascension. Arrangements are under the direction of Rogers Funeral Home and an online tribute is available at rogersfrankfort.com.