History of OMHC

Nestled within the heart of Lincoln County, Washington, Odessa, is a small town with a rich history that stretches back over a century.  Odessa has grown and developed thanks to hard work and dedication.  The Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center (OMHC) stands as a current day beacon of wellness and healing in Odessa, reflecting the enduring spirit of our community.

In 1892, the Great Northern Railroad was built through this part of the country, with a sidetrack known as the Odessa Siding.  In order to attract settlers to Odessa and ensure themselves of future success, the Great Northern Railroad offered immigrants free passage and the opportunity to obtain homesteads.  By 1898, Mr. Finney, realizing the potential for a town, donated his land for the formation of the town of Odessa. 

The town of Odessa was named after the city of Odessa in Ukraine, reflecting the heritage of many of its early German & Russian inhabitants. These settlers were hardworking and determined people who faced many challenges as they built their new community.  As more settlers arrived, the town of Odessa began to grow.  On November 6, 1899, Odessa was officially platted, marking a significant milestone in its history. John E. Kleber, a prominent figure in the community, was elected as the town’s first mayor. Through collaborative efforts, Odessa flourished as businesses, schools, and churches emerged, fostering a sense of community and belonging among its residents.

In October 1902, Odessa was incorporated with a population of 500.  The town continued to grow reaching approximately 1200 people and remaining fairly constant over the years.  The pioneers and their descendants are to be commended for their thrift, industry, simplicity. Their lives revolved around home, family, church, “Kirche, Kinder, and Kuche” (Literally church, children and kitchen). 

The Odessa Drug Company, the oldest continually running business in Odessa, was opened on April 1, 1901 by Dr. J L Kelly.  Dr. R Connel, the first doctor in Odessa and the first postmaster, and Dr. Kelly were celebrated for their kindness and dedication.  They made house calls, treated a wide range of ailments, and provided comfort and care to countless patients

In 1902, the first school was built. This small, one-room building was important not only for education but also as a community hub where families gathered for events and activities. The school was a symbol of hope and progress, ensuring that the children of Odessa received an education and had a bright future ahead of them.

By 1904, Odessa had its first newspaper, the Odessa Record. Established by Fred Richardson, the newspaper quickly became a vital source of news and information for the residents. It reported on local events, shared important announcements, and provided a platform for community voices. The Odessa Record remains in publication today, making it one of the oldest continuously published newspapers in Washington state.

In 1906, Odessa faced a major challenge when a significant fire swept through the town, destroying many buildings. This event tested the community’s resilience, but the residents of Odessa came together to rebuild their town. The fire led to the construction of more fire-resistant buildings and the establishment of a volunteer fire department, which improved the town’s infrastructure and safety. 

Before the establishment of Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center, residents had to travel long distances to receive medical care. This was particularly challenging and sometimes dangerous, especially during emergencies. Prior to the healthcare facilities in Odessa several local ladies opened their homes to care for the sick, injured and ladies with newborn children including; Mrs. Pete Luiten, Mrs. Karl Kiehn, Mrs. George Zicha, Mrs. Carl Roloff, Mrs. Tony Groh, Mrs. Ida Praetorius, Mrs. Fuchs, and Mrs. Brockman (Midwife).

Recognizing the need for local medical services, the community came together to establish a new hospital.  In January 1947 the Lincoln County Public Hospital District #1 was created and the first official board minutes were taken. By November 2, 1948 a $120,000.00 bond was approved to build the first hospital in Odessa.  The vote was 757 “yes” out of the 931 registered voters.  The first “spade of earth was turned by Mayor W. C. Raugust” at a ground-breaking ceremony for the new hospital.  

January 20, 1949 the first Bonds were delivered

February 10, 1949 Hospital Architectural Plans were approved

March 17, 1949 Equipment Drive begins looking to raise $20,000.00

April 29, 1949 Town Auction towards matching funds held.

June 30, 1949 Dental Office / Clinic to be built, Dr K.E. Gudgel to be the physician

On March 30^th 1950, the Odessa Record reported the new 16 bed facility is a “thing of beauty, not designed as a place in which to be sick, rather, as a place to get well.”

April 6, 1950 The Veteran’s Memorial Hospital was dedicated.  

1950 The Women’s Guild of the Veteran’s Memorial Hospital and Hospital Auxiliary was formed the same year the hospital.  At the heart of Odessa’s healthcare legacy lies the unwavering support and engagement of its community members. Many community members have volunteered their time and resources to support the Odessa Hospital.  The Guild / Auxiliary members have hosted such events as the Smorgasbord, the Festival of Fashion and cookbook sales as a part of their first decade of fundraising in Odessa.

Olive Bloom, RN was the first Hospital Administrator followed by Florence Constantine RN.  Leona Perras RN took over as Administrator in 1953 and was followed by many great leaders over the years.  Their leadership and organizational skills were instrumental in establishing the policies and procedures that ensured the smooth operation of the hospital.

Over the years, Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center has expanded and modernized to meet the growing needs of the community.

1961-1962 the first expansion began and the Convalescent Center was opened

1965 Another major expansion came in and the building assumed its present size and appearance with 23 beds for long term care nursing and 21 beds for acute care.  The official name of the facility was also changed to “Memorial Hospital” of Lincoln County Hospital District No 1.  

May 1970 Odessa Hospital stats: 21 acute beds, 23 convalescent beds, 7 nurses, 15 nursing aides, 3 cooks, 4 housekeepers, 11 other personnel, cost $19,000 a month to run the facility.

February 20, 1976 Open House for Clinic building with new reception area expanding the Clinic                                                                       

January 24, 1984 Hospital was certified for 4 swing beds

December 1985 Board of Commissioners was expanded to 5 members

January 1987 Odessa Clinic becomes part of the Hospital District

June 1988 Odessa Memorial Hospital Board of Commissioners had a desire to set up a foundation.  It was then the Odessa Healthcare Foundation was formed. 

The most notable fundraiser the Foundation organizes is the is the annual Odessa Healthcare Foundation Auction. This event brings together community members and several from outside the community to enjoy dinner and bid on silent and live auction items.  All proceeds going to support OMHC. The auction has become a beloved tradition in Odessa, showcasing the community’s generosity and commitment to the healthcare center.  For additional information about the Odessa Healthcare Foundation please https://www.odessahealthcarefoundation.org/

September 1989 Massage Therapy added to the Physical Therapy Dept.

January 29, 1991 Odessa Clinic received Rural Health Clinic designation

1991 First Odessa Healthcare Foundation Wine Tasting Party held.

February 1992 Hospital Auxiliary celebrates $100,000.00 in donations to the Odessa Memorial Hospital

August 1992 Dr Powel the first female physician in Odessa arrived.

August 1993 work began on the Rooftop Heliport – First rural hospital to build have a rooftop heliport in Washington

September 1994 Heliport completed. Cost approximately $60,000 that was 90% funded by a state grant.

May 1995 New Maintenance storage building built south of the hospital

February 1996 Odessa Lions club provided Spinoza the Buddy Bear to Odessa Memorial Hospital.  “Spinoza a reassuring friend can talk to pediatric patients to help lessen the fears they may have while at the hospital.”

November 1996 Bids open for new assisted living apartment project

February 1998 Quail Court Assisted Living Apartment Open House

2024 saw the completion of a 3500 square foot addition to the hospital that included space for a new CT suite, Purchasing office, EMS office, hazardous waste storage and a heated garage for the ambulance.  The project was paid for in cash by the hospital.  The CT Scanner and new Digital x-ray equipment was purchased in part by generous donations from the community made via the Odessa Healthcare Foundation.

In addition to the new space that was completed in 2024, there was also significant work done to replace the nearly 80-year-old asbestos-based flooring in the upper levels of the hospital including patient rooms, hallways, nursing stations, emergency rooms, offices and storage areas.  The new flooring is a vinyl wood plank flooring that is consistent throughout the building.  The walls were repainted, the north wing nurses’ station was replaced and upgraded, a new coffee bar was installed in the main hospital lobby and the Laboratory was completely remodeled with new electrical wiring, cabinetry and countertops. 

OMHC Staff and Odessa Community members contributed more than 250 photographs of the surrounding area that were printed on canvas and are the new art exhibit in the hallways and common areas of the hospital. 

The Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center has seen countless patients over the years, each with their own story. The healthcare center’s staff have built lasting relationships with many families, providing care through multiple generations. From delivering babies to providing end-of-life care, the healthcare center has been a part of many significant moments in the lives of Odessa’s residents.

The healthcare center’s success is due to the dedicated staff who work there. Nurses, providers, administrators, and support staff all contribute to creating a caring, supportive and healing environment. Many staff members have worked at the hospital for decades, becoming well-known and respected members of the community. Their commitment to providing excellent care has made a significant impact on the lives of many residents.  

Odessa is a town that values its traditions and community spirit. The Odessa Deutschesfest, and various community fundraisers are integral to the town’s identity. These events bring residents together, celebrate the town’s heritage, and raise funds for important causes in the community.

Volunteerism is a strong tradition in Odessa. Many residents dedicate their time and energy to supporting community projects, events, and institutions. The healthcare center has benefited from the efforts of numerous volunteers who have helped with fundraising, patient support, and administrative tasks.

The story of Odessa Washington, and the Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center are stories that represent resilience, community, hard work, dedication and continual progress for a better future. From Odessa’s early days as a pioneer settlement and healthcare starting in the homes of residents to the OMHC we know today, these journeys reflect the triumphs and challenges of small-town America.

As the Odessa Memorial Healthcare Center looks toward the future, it remains committed to its mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care to all who are in need. With plans for continued expansion, modernization, and community engagement, OMHC is poised to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Odessa and its surrounding areas for generations to come.  As residents of the town of Odessa and the staff at OMHC we truly “stand on the shoulders” of those that have gone before us.