Obituary: Harry Oakes

Harry Oakes, 86, of Medford passed away at home on April 24 with his family and friends by his side.

He was the son of the late Harry W. Oakes and Katherine Brezel Oakes. Harry grew up in Burlington and proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate First Class.

He graduated from Rutgers University and shortly thereafter moved to Medford and married the former Doris Mingin. He worked for 33 years for RCA in Moorestown, retiring in 1987.

A great passion of Harry’s was music, playing trumpet most of his life. He shared his enthusiasm for music with family and friends, especially encouraging young musicians. Harry played in swing bands in the Navy as well as in college and later played in area community bands. Harry was an active member of the Liberty Band for almost 40 years.

Most of all, Harry enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He was also interested in building and flying model airplanes. Harry was a member of the Medford Odd Fellows and Faith Presbyterian Church.

Harry was predeceased by his wife, Doris Mingin Oakes to whom he was married 51 years. He is survived by his loving daughters, Natalie Sturr of Oswego, N.Y. and Laurie Chranowski (Ray) of Turnersville, and his beloved grandchildren, Eric Sturr of North Brunswick, and Tom and Tracy Chranowski of Turnersville.

Funeral Services will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Lechner Funeral Home, 24 N. Main St., Medford. Relatives and friends may call Friday evening, 7–9 p.m. and Saturday morning from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Burial is in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Medford.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the U.S.O. (www.uso.org/donate) or charity of donor’s choice.