ASHLAND, Maine – Neil J. Oakes, 62, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 24, 2018, with his loving family at his side, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on December 16, 1955, in Presque Isle, a son of the late Warren and Catherine (Curtis) Oakes.
Neil was a production foreman for Maibec Lumber Mill, Masardis, formerly J. Paul Levesque & Sons and Fraser Timber. He was recognized as a great problem solver during his 40 year career. He was a dedicated, hardworking provider for his family, and never hesitated to share his kindhearted smile or a helping hand to anyone he met. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, and riding his Harley, and loved making great memories with his family, friends, and fiancée. Some of his proudest moments were being with and holding all his grandchildren and being called “Grampy.”
He is survived by two sons, Dustin Oakes and his wife, Amber, of Chapman and Bruce Oakes and his wife, Mindy, of Mapleton; his fiancée, Beth Ann (Judkins) Jandreau of Ashland; three grandchildren, Scarlett Rae, Mason Samuel, and Madison Leigh Oakes; the loving mother of his sons, Julie Oakes Quint of Hodgdon; five siblings, Charlotte Oakes, Warren “Buz” Oakes and his wife, Karen, Carlton, Oakes and Peter Oakes, all of Ashland; a sister-in-law, Karen Iovine Oakes of Limerick, ME; and many special nieces and nephews.
Neil was predeceased his parents, and brother, Gerald Oakes.
The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at Masardis Pentecostal Church, 1306 Garfield Rd., Masardis, with Pastor Don Morton officiating. Relatives and friends may greet the family at 11 a.m. until the time of service at the church. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at the Fish & Game Club in Ashland at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Neil’s name may be made to Aroostook House of Comfort, 18 Green Hill Drive, Presque Isle, ME 04769. To share condolences online, please visit www.LajoieFuneralHome.com
