"I met Greg in the Navy, on board the Uss Independence around 1976 . We were both young and full of energy. He always liked to wrestle with me first thing in the morning while we were waiting for roll call to begin. We had some really good times while we were in Norfolk, VA. When ever we were on shore together we always had a great time! I'm sorry we didn't stay in touch after the navy; And I'm truly sorry to hear of his passing....He was way to young !! God bless all of you."
In loving memory of
Gregory Lea Oakes
March 22, 1956 - August 26, 2009
GREGORY OAKES MUSCATINE, Iowa - Gregory Lea Oakes, 53, of Muscatine, went to be with the Lord, on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, at his home. Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2009, at the Wesley United Methodist Church. Dr. Bruce Ursin will officiate. Honorary bearers will be Collin McDaniel, Mason Oakes, and Earl Fuller. Casket bearers will be Benjamin Oakes, Samuel Oakes, Bob Calegan, Scott Burk, Laekkon McDaniel, and Dan Smith. Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, August 28, 2009, at the Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, that memorials be made to the family in care of Mora-Leigh Oakes. Gregory was born on March 22, 1956, in Iowa City, the son of Theron Wray and Rosella Mae Russell Oakes. He married Mora-Leigh Bierman on April 29, 2005, in Muscatine. He was a veteran of the US Navy serving four years on the USS Independence. He was owner/operator of Able Handyman Services, Inc. He was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church. Greg was a passionate man who deeply loved Jesus, his wife, children, family, and friends. His life long dream was to evangelize for the Lord and lead people to Christ. He was a talented craftsman who enjoyed a challenge. He also loved to dirt bike, play cribbage, bowl, play horseshoes, cook, water ski, dance, and tease those he loved. Survivors include his wife, Mora-Leigh Oakes of Muscatine; two sons, Samuel Oakes of Cedar Rapids, and Benjamin Oakes of Iowa City; two step-sons, Collin McDaniel and Laekkon McDaniel, both of Muscatine; one grandson, Mason Oakes; two brothers, Terry Oakes of Iowa City, and Jim Oakes of California; and two sisters, Jackie Hutcheson and Ethel Good, both of Iowa City. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Tributes
"I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Greg very well, having grown up with him in Coralville in the sixties, then later when he worked at Thomas and Betts. I wish I could have made it there today for all of you. His memory will reside in my heart for years to come. God bless all of you. Eddie"
"I remember Greg from junior high and highschool. We were both in the Navy at about the same time. My prayers are with his family and friends."
"To Greg's Family, I went to school with Greg in Iowa City and always had great conversations when we would bump into each other. I had not seen Greg for years but will remember his ornery and humorous ways. He is someone I think of often and wondered where he was . Now I know. I wish him peace, and know that he will be missed. Hugs. Linda Sexton Fobian~ Iowa City."
"I am very sorry for the familys loss. Knowing Greg has been a blessing these last 10 years. I dont know how life is going to be without him, but I am so greatfull that Mason had at least 9 1/2 years with his grandpa. Had it not been for Greg my son would not know any of the Oakes side of his family, and what a wonderfull side it is. I hope that Greg knows just how important he was to Mason and I and how our lives will be less without him. I will keep him forever in my closest memories and never let Mason forget the days he had with his Grandpa Greg. Love, Melissa Horton"
"Mora Leigh & Family, My condolences to you all for the passing of Greg. Mora Leigh - I enjoyed getting to know both Greg & you and laughing with you both everytime you came into the office. He will be deeply missed. Keep the peace knowing he is no longer suffering. God Bless! April Luna"
"Our prayers are with the entire family. Greg could always make us laugh when he came into our office. He was a gentle and kind soul and we could tell that he enjoyed life very much. Again we are very sorry for your loss, he will be deeply missed."
"Mora Leigh: I am sorry to hear about Greg. He was known all over town, as the lord's "fix-it man". I go to prepare a place for you. And, if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:2:3 In closing: Just remember to keep your grief light hearted, and as time goes by, the sorrow will fade, and then you will be blessed with beautiful memories of him. God Bless you & your family"
"Mora Leigh, our hearts go out to you and your family. We are glad you were able to share such a special loving relationship. May God bless you and ease your pain."
"Mora Leigh & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I knew you when I worked at the credit union, and met Greg a few times. He was always a bright & friendly man. Loads of prayers and hugs your way..."
"Mora-Leigh: I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. I did not know Greg @ all, but got to know you and I know this man made you happy. You will have very special memories of Greg. He will always be in your heart."
"my husband worked with greg in muscatine on jobs and greg was a good man .we went to church with him and his wife at jesus mission im so sorry for your loss of your husband ,dad and we pray that god comforts his loved ones"
"I am so sorry to hear that Greg passed away. He truly was a man of God. I truly believe that he is in the very presence of Christ this minute. Your family is in my prayers."
"Mora Leigh, When told Greg had "passed away" I said no, Greg went to be with Jesus. I can hear him say it!! I have only known Greg for 2 years, but we have had hours of conversation, he has done lots of work for us and he shared his heart. He Loved the Lord entirely and wanted so much for his kids and your kids to come to know the Lord as well. It was truly his heart's desire. He will be truly, truly missed, but Oh, I can't imagine what joy he is experiencing now with his Lord. Sincerely, Deb & Rick Fenwick"
"I am sorry to hear of the loss of Greg. He brought many interesting conversations to the transfer station when he visited. We do not know what day we will go to the lord. Only God knows what day he will come down and grant us the right into his kingdom. Right now it is not fair to see Greg gone from the world as we know it. But, right now Greg is having the biggest party with God and Jesus on both sides of him! His pain is gone and he is clapping his hands, dancing, and singing! May God speed you through the pain Mora Leigh and your family too."
"Our sympathies and love. From the Mercy Me song, "I Can Only Imagine" what joys Greg is experiencing, finally home with Jesus. love, Betty & The Fyffe Family"
"I will forever remember the days I spent with Greg ("Able"). May you rest in peace brother. God bless."