Obituary of Carl James Oakes

Massena- Mr. Carl James Oakes, 60, passed away on Thursday May 11, 2017 after his courageous battle with mesothelioma, at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, VT. He was surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Carl was born in Potsdam on June 8, 1956 to the late Gordon and Betty (Arquette) Oakes. He attended St. Lawrence Central School in Brasher Falls; later earning his GED. On September 28, 1974 in Theills, NY Carl married his best friend and soul mate, Loretta Otte. They shared a blessed union of 42 years built upon faith, family, and a true love and support for one another. Carl was a truck driver for Shaun Trana, for 25 dedicated years. He was well known and well respected along the road as he went the extra mile to visit and make friendships with fellow truck drivers. In 2014 he then worked for 2 years at the Massena Metal Company. Having a true passion for horses, Carl was one of the major supporters of Little Bit of Heaven Inc. Horse Rescue in North Lawrence. He also was a huge NACAR fan; collecting Dale Earnhardt memorabilia. He is survived by his wife, Loretta; daughter, Geneva Oakes and her fiancé Mark Willard of Lisbon; son, Christopher and Rachel Oakes and their children: Gabriella, Adrianna, Carl James III, and Isabella, of Marlboro, NY; adopted daughter Gloria McClary and her fiancé Taylor Brewer of Massena; 3 brothers and sisters-in-law: Ronald and Charlotte Oakes, Robert and Maria Oakes, and Gordon and Donna Oakes, and a whole bunch of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Always close to Carl's heart is the memory of those who predeceased him: his son, Carl Oakes Jr. and his grandson, Christopher Thomas Oakes. Calling hours will be Tuesday May 16th from 2-4 and 6-8pm at the Hammill Funeral Home, with a closing prayer being offered at 8:00pm. Flowers are gratefully declined. For those wishing to express an act of kindness memorial contributions may be made to: Little Bit of Heaven Inc. Horse Rescue, 35 Hallahan Rd, North Lawrence, NY 12967, www.alittlebitofheaven.org. Memories and condolences may be shared with Carl's family at, www.hammillfh.com.