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Donald Oaks Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Donald Oaks
Taylor Cross
May 25, 2015
I visited Arlington Cemetery yesterday. They had a memorial for all the fallen soldiers since 9/11. Part of the memorial was the option to wear a card around your neck with the name of a hero. I do not personally know anyone on the list, so I asked the gentleman at the desk to pick. He handed me a card with the name Sgt Donald S Oaks Jr on it. I would like to say that I am sorry for your loss, but eternally gratefully for the sacrifice he made. He is remembered.
Lily Ohmer
May 17, 2015
Thank you Bob and Judy Crissman. Life never returns to normal but the love and kindness of those who continue to remember Don and his ultimate sacrifice does keep us uplifted.
Bob and Judy Crissman
May 16, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Lily (Don's aunt)
May 4, 2013
Charlie Gili and Family, your gracious gift of remembrance of Donny and aid to our currently serving military men and women reminds us that good and compassionate people continue to rise above the harshness of the world to show their love. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your good deeds and continuing to be a light that shinea forth from the darkness.
Charlie Gili
April 13, 2013
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Oaks Family know that we recently sent Care Packages to American troops in the war zones. Each box carried a dedication sheet that includes the name, service information and a photo of your loved one. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Donny's Aunt Lily
February 19, 2013
Grateful American in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Thank you so much for your post here in Donny's guest book. After 10 years, the void in our hearts is just as pervasive as it was the day we learned of his passing. We cling to posts such as yours for some meaningful comfort as we wonder what kind of person Donny would be today had he lived. Our deepest gratitude to you for your sentiment and your active remembrance of him.
Greatful American
January 29, 2013
While attending Mercyhurst a friend of mine often spoke fondly of your son. I did not personally know him but his name and sacrifice have a permanent place in my memory. I was showing my class the Washington Post “Faces of the Fallen” Veterans Memorial site today during class…I always click on his picture and story first.
God Bless You,
Ron Dombkowski
May 29, 2012
Thank You for your service, God Bless You, Your Family and the USA.
Ginger Mankowski
April 3, 2011
To the family and friends of Spc. Donald S. Oaks:
Please accept our remembrance of Donald on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Ginger Mankowski/Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Peggy Childers
April 3, 2010
To the family and friends of Spc. Donald S. Oaks:
Remembering Donald on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Wayne Coomer
March 12, 2010
You will never be forgotten.
SGT Crystal Ayala
January 30, 2010
As a fellow Soldier, I would like to thank you for everything you've done for this Army and our country. I wouldnt doubt that you were a great Soldier. I am sorry that your life had to end so soon. To the Oaks Family, im sorry your son had to go the way he did and I just want you to know that although your son is not here today, he will always be remembered as a part of history... God bless his soul.
Davey Cimino
September 11, 2009
Today I woke up and thought of you. During our 11 September remembrance ceremony I thought of you. When I think about it, Everyday I wake up I think of you. Your picture in my wallet gives me hope, but the memory of you gives me strength. I feel honored that I have had the privilege of knowing you. your my definition of a hero. We will never forget. Field Artillery Forever.
Sincerely,
David G. Cimino, PFC United States Army
SSG(Retired) Martin
July 5, 2009
It has been six years since that ill-fated day. I sat here on the 4th of July, thinking of my friends that were killed and their families that were left behind. Oaks was one of my soldiers. He was a strong and honorable man. He was a hard worker that loved his family and friends. He showed great potential to be a leader. He readily shared his knowledge and corrected his peers when they were wrong.
I will always remember the last time I saw him sitting in the turret of the HUMMV, smiling and laughing with his platoon.
To the Oaks family, It was an honor and a privilege to have known your son. You had raised a wonderful man.
He will never be forgotten.
May 25, 2009
You are gratefully remembered.
May 24, 2009
To let your family know, you are not forgotten this Memorial day
Papa Sam Oaks
April 10, 2009
To all of you who keep the memory of Don alive ,GOD BLESS YOU
Peggy Childers
April 3, 2009
To the family of Spc. Donald S. Oaks:
Donald gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Criss Dougherty
June 19, 2008
Family and Friends of SPC Donald Oaks; Don was one of the first guys I met upon arriving to Ft Hood from Korea. Almost immediately, we were friends. I never knew anyone to dislike him, and was always the center of attention. We shared many great memories together. He is SADLY missed, but FONDLY remebered. May GOD be with you my friend
john thompson
April 6, 2008
To the family of Donald Oaks. I want you to know that your son, brother was an excellent soldier and friend. he was attached to my unit in Kuwait. I was there that night in Iraq and if you have any questions for me i'll try my best to answer all that i can. May god bless all of you.
Betty Frye
April 5, 2008
My deepest condolences to the family.May God comfort you in this time of indescribable pain and grief. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
~*Home*~
Debra Estep
April 3, 2008
To the family, Char and friends of Donald.
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.
May God and His Angels surround you and bring you comfort.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Donald, but he is my hero. If you would like a copy of the Angel I posted here, please contact me and I will email that to you.
xo xo
Deb
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
www.remembering-the-fallen.blogspot.com
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
April 3, 2008
Our continued thoughts and prayers out to the OAKS family.Knowing now what they have always known is one of the many reasons that our HERO[S] shall NEVER be forgotten .Rest well brother as prommissed and in you honor that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave.Your name stamped in steel is FOREVER clutched in the tallons ,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our greatfull nation.THANK YOU.........B.V.C.....
Tom Gugliuzza
November 13, 2007
To the Oaks family; I previously signed Donald's guest book. I continue to honor Donald and pray each day for each of you. Donald it has been over 4 years since you were taken. You are my hero and you will never be forgotten.
Amber Oaks
August 5, 2007
The day my brother left this earth, many many lives were changed forever. Surely the lives of those who knew him and love him were affected, but also the lives of people all over the world who simply heard his story. Its a struggle every day to be without him, but even though my heart is broken..it is also full of love and respect for each and every person who has reached out to our family and friends with such compassion. Thank you greatly for your kindness. God Bless
Althea B
July 24, 2007
Thank you for your willingness to defend the United States of America and all that we hold sacred. Though tears can never bring you back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that you made and our sorrow at your passing. You are truly a hero and your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Your mission on earth is complete. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the heroes who have passed before.
Jordiane Svrcek (Lovin)
May 21, 2007
Mr. Donald Oaks,
You may not remember me, but I used to work at Eastway Lanes. One day, before I left for basic training, you gave me a picture of your son to sort of keep with me through my hard times. For nine weeks, Don's picture was hung in my wall locker and I would often look at his picture and thank him silently for the sacrafices he has made. Although I did not know him, he has been my inspiration for the past three years. I still keep his picture with me, nestled safetly in my apartment.
As I sit here, a SGT in the Army, not a day goes by that I don't think of your son. Thank you for that picture...I will cherish it forever.
"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years."
Garnet Jenkins
April 3, 2007
In Remembrance of Spc. Donald S. Oaks, who gave his life for our Country, with so much gratitude to this Brave Young Soldier and his family, for his Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom.
These Young Heroes who Made this Ultimate Sacrifice, shall Never Be Forgotten, my young brother among them, who was killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.
"Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid, they have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices". - PRESIDENT HARRY S. TRUMAN
I am sincerely hoping that you continue to feel the thoughts of Caring and Support that surround you each day, as this Country Remembers Someone Very Precious to you, who is a Hero to all of us.
I am So Deeply Sorry for your loss.
September 8, 2006
Don was one of those kids that you could honestly say was a "good kid". He lived the best life he could given what was dealt to him and Amber. He originally went into the Army for the help it would give him getting into college but when the war came, he embraced it. He was an incredibly brave young man and in some strange way, was prepared for what was ahead of him. If there is a heaven at all, I believe he is at the Gates waiting for the rest of us. If anyone belongs there, it is him.
Rosaline Livingston
July 14, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Oaks family in the loss of their dear son. It is hard to lose any loved one in death but when they are especially young, that makes it even more painful. Please know that there will come a time when war will end and 'nations will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears. Nations will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore.' My prayers go out to you and for a world full of peace and righteousness.
With deepest sympathy,
R. Livingston
[email protected]
Paul Schneeberger
June 2, 2006
Laurie,
We think of you often. Don't be a stranger to NY.
SSGT ROYER
June 2, 2006
May the Lord be your sheppard young man. You have not died in vane, and you will NEVER be forgotten. GODSPEED!!! You will forever be in my heart and prayers.THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bill S
April 24, 2006
I just happened to come across this page. I grew up in Erie and joined the Marines in 1994. I send my sincerest condolences to you and your family. I'm proud of your son for serving, and he will always be remembered.
Tom Gugliuzzas-Smith
November 30, 2005
My heartfelt sympathy to the Oaks family in the loss of your dear son, brother and hero Don. I did not know your son/brother,I lived in the Easton/Bangor PA area 50 years) but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a young man. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.
I send each of you a hug from my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Samuel Oaks
November 8, 2005
I have been deeply moved by all the kind and respectful words that all of the visitors to Donnie's guest book.Our family would like to thank all of you. It means so much to us to know that so many of you cared enough forthe memory of Donnie that you would make an entry in his guest book. God bless you all.
Neena Hallock
July 9, 2005
I am the mother of a US Marine who has fought in Iraq. Please know that your sacrifice's are not in vain. Through brave soilders like your son, many have returned home unharmed. God Bless Your Family
Stephanie Harper
July 8, 2005
I just wanna say i'm so sorry that Don is gone...I hope i don't have to go through it i have some family that is in the service.
God bless ya!!!!
Bill......USMC
June 28, 2005
No one will ever know the saddness that is in your heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Donald joins the ranks of Our Honored Heros, who have given their all to protect our people, our freedom and our way of life. Our grateful thanks and our sympathy in your time of grief.
Kim Mrozowski
May 3, 2005
Thank you Donald for fighting for my family and our Nation. You will always be a hero in the eyes of my family and the entire community. May god bless your family.
Theresa Fullerton
April 19, 2003
He was a hero in my families eyes and in our hearts.
annissa summers
April 17, 2003
I am a wife of a soldier in Ft. Campbell. I pray daily that I never face what your family is going through. I pray the good Lord lays his hand upon you and gives the strenth and love you all need. He truly is a hero.
The Kowalczyk Family
April 16, 2003
To the family and friends of Donald Oaks, Jr. Be proud for the Lord will watch over him and all of us. Our condolences go out to all of you. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless!!
Heather
April 15, 2003
To family and friends:
I just wanted to let you know your son is my #1 American Hero. He will always be remembered...
Bob & Patty Lamary
April 14, 2003
To the Family and Friends of Don Oaks:
We appreciate the love Don had for us and his country, that he would lay down his life in service to our country and in the defense of those who have not been able to defend themselves. We pray that God will comfort and provide for the needs of all of you during this time of sorrow. We pray also that God will show you the greater good He has planned for you and others through Don's life and sacrifice, allowing Don's life on earth to end now, and calling him to His eternal presence. In the name of Jesus Christ, His Son, whose death and resurection we celebrate this week, thanking Him for His sacrifice and His gift to us of eternal life, we pray that God will bless you.
Lisa Bannister
April 14, 2003
Although I did not know your son. I do know he was a TRUE HERO to all of us here and over seas. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at such a hard time. God Bless all of you.
Courtney Landis
April 14, 2003
To the Oaks family and Char,
I've known Don all my life and it's so hard to believe that he's gone. He was a great friend and always made people laugh no matter how much they were hurting. He is a TRUE AMERICAN HERO and will be remembered for years to come. We just all have to remember that The Storm is over now, and Don is in a better place up in Heaven looking over us now and he will always be with us no matter where we are!
God Bless the Oaks family and Char and remember he is with us always and he is a true HERO to the world!
Panaiajo
April 14, 2003
God bless Donald and the rest of the men who are fighting for our safety and freedom. They are young, but they are strong.
Rest in peace Donald and may God hold your family in the palm of His hand. Thank you for your service for the USA.
Barbara & Larry Robinson
April 14, 2003
Please know that you are in our hearts and prayers as former residents of Erie. May you find comfort in knowing that many are praying for you now. We know that your are so proud of your son as you should be. May God bless you and keep you near in your hour of need. Your son made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. God bless you and thank you.
Cindy Wheeler
April 14, 2003
Don,
Please accept my sincerest condolences on the loss of your son. Although I didn't know him, I knew you as a teenager so I know he was a fine young man.
He will always be a hero in my eyes. Someday I hope you may take comfort in knowing that he died fighting for what we all want.....freedom.
I salute you Donald Samuel Oaks, Jr. and may you rest in peace in God's arms.
Goodnight America's Hero!
margaret allison
April 13, 2003
My prayers are with you both. Mother and Father. My thoughts have been with you since I heard about your son. He will always be with you no matter where you are. The bravery your son had will keep his bravery with you always. God Bless You and your family. Margaret Allison
PFC Mike Wolanin, USMC
April 13, 2003
God Bless Don and the rest of his Family. He is not only in my thoughts and prayers but also in my fellow Marines'. He is truly a Hero, not everyone is willing or even brave enough to sign a contract, devoting your life to fight for and provide freedom! God Bless!!
Darlene Dixon
April 13, 2003
To the family of Donald Oaks Jr., May your heart find contentment knowing that your son, our hero, will never be forgotten. Thank you for raising such a fine young man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as well as all the other soldiers that have yet to return home to their families..God Bless, The Dixon Family
Mike and Mary Rita Groucutt
April 13, 2003
To the Oaks Family and Char,
We are so sorry for your loss! What a great kid Donny was-- we know how deeply Jessica, Deron and all Donny's friends love and miss him already!
He will always be their hero and ours as well.
Mary Rita and Mike Groucutt
Denise Nelson
April 13, 2003
God Bless your entire family in their time of sorrow. Know that an entire community mourns with you.My prayers are with you daily. Your son is a true American hero. He helped to free an enslaved population. Peace be you always.
Dennis and Shirley Hodges
April 13, 2003
As parents, grandparents and great-grandparents, our hearts are full of sorrow for the loss of your son.
As Americans, we are proud of that young man who was willing to help free an enslaved population. God bless your whole family. You are in our daily prayers.
Anthony and Leda Palermo
April 13, 2003
Our sincere condolences. "No greater love...."
Debbie Sturtevant
April 13, 2003
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your son is a true American Hero. God Bless you and your Family at this time.
Mrs. Richard Whiting
April 13, 2003
To the family of Donald Oaks, Jr.:
Please accept my most sincere sympathy on the loss of your son, Donald. From all I have heard and read, he must have been a fine son...a tribute to you. As a Mother, my heart hurts for your entire family as you grieve for your son, but I do pray that you will find "some" comfort in the knowledge that he was a brave young man, that he fought for our country and for us, and I pray that someday all of this will be replaced by only your good memories of time spent with your son. God bless you and your family.
Mrs. R. Whiting.
Erie, PA
Larry DiFiori
April 13, 2003
Don, I am so sorry for your lose. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
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