Death Notices

OAKES, Gregory Earl – surrounded by his loving family at the Norfolk General Hospital, Simcoe on Sunday, June 15th, 2025 in his 72nd year.  Beloved husband of Esther Oakes (nee Jelsma) of Vittoria.  Loving father of Dylan Oakes of Vittoria.  Predeceased by his parents, the late Earl (2004) and Evelyn (nee Rock – 2024).  Brother & uncle of Karen Oakes of Vittoria, her daughter Elyshia McQuade (son Zavier).  Greg will be sadly missed by Esther’s siblings Harry (Linda), the late Jane DeVries (Barney, his wife Ileen), Jon (Nadine), William (late Margaret), Wilma Kohl (David), Dyan Shippee & Mary Jelsma.  Lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews & extended family.  Greg was a long haul truck driver his entire career working as an owner / operator for Kellogg’s & B.R. Smith Ltd.  In his retirement, Greg hauled ice roads for 7 years.  He was a proud member of the Smokey Lake Hunting Camp in South River.  Friends are invited to celebrate Greg’s life and share memories with his family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe on Friday, June 20th, 2025 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.  A private interment of ashes will be held at Woodhouse United Cemetery.  Those wishing to donate in memory of Greg are asked to consider the Cancer Research Foundation or the Norfolk General Hospital Foundation.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199