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Wilbur Oaks Obituary
(development.lafayette.edu/give) Click "Areas of Your Choice" and click "Dr. Wilbur Oaks '51 Leadership Development Fund" or to Department of Medicine at Drexel University College of Medicine, P.O. Box 8235, Phila. PA 19101, which supports the Wilbur W. Oaks, Jr. MD Distinguished Lecture Professorship.
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Memories and Condolences
for Wilbur Oaks
Sponsored by Chadwick & McKinney Funeral Home, Inc..
Kevin Gerber
June 10, 2025
I can´t believe 10 years has gone by... So many memories working & knowing Dr. Oaks. One that I often talk about was when I was enlisted to be his co-pilot to go see one of Lafayette´s away games. I think Mrs. Oaks just didn´t want him making the 3 hour trip on his own. So, I met him at his house in the wee hours of the morning and we got on the road. Three hours later, we arrived at whatever college the game was supposed to be and realized quickly that he had the wrong date written down.... Needless to say, we whipped the car around and headed back to PA. I offered several time to drive but he was insistent on doing it himself. I think he was just eager to get back to doing rounds at the hospital. Even though he didn´t get to see his team play, we did have a great time & great conversation. He was definitely a one of a kind person and I am forever grateful I had the chance to know him early on in my life. Keep resting in peace, Oaksie! Miss ya buddy!
Winnie Loughney Baden
June 9, 2025
Sharing Christmas Eve memories! Billy struggled to get home, to meet me at his front door on Christmas Eve. Often having difficulty finding the exact item, days earlier I would shop to fill an item on Mary Ann's Christmas list. Billy always wanted to sneak it under the Christmas tree because he wanted her to know how much he cared.
Janet Gring
August 19, 2022
Dr Oaks was my doctor after a serious car accident when I was 19 years old. I´ll never forget when he said your not eating your losing weight I was in the hospital for 8 weeks. He asked me what do you feel like eating . I said maybe some Ham??? He said as he was heading out of the door something like
" I´ll see what I can do "
Within an hour a nurse brought in a ham sandwich. what a heart of gold
4 years later I graduated from nursing school . He truly inspired me
Kathleen Kratz
July 3, 2021
I will never forget Dr Oaks. I was very lucky to have worked with him for 16 years. I loved watching him teach the medical students. He had so much passion for medicine and for caring for his patients. His patients adored him! He was the best physician I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Wonderful memories! He was always so kind.
Winnie Baden
June 9, 2020
Everything Billy did was by giving more than 100 percent, in medicine, sports, family, friendship, mentor, leader and the list goes on. Five years later, I continue to reach out, only to remember he is no longer a call away.
Geralyn Everett
January 15, 2019
It's been said one person can make a difference. You touched so many lives along the way. Hahnemann lost its heart and soul with your passing.
You were one of a kind.
D Alexabder
February 2, 2017
The Best Dr in Philly. If all Dr's could treat their patients as Dr Oaks did the world would have happy sick people knowing they would be better soon with him caring for them. He took such good care of my father.He taught me some many things during that time .Everything I learned helps me right up to this day.May he RIP and LOVE
June 19, 2016
I am so sorry for your
familys' s great loss.
So happy for you all that he lived
Rose Linville
Karen Michele
November 28, 2015
So sorry to hear the news. He was a wonderful man. Deepest sympathy to his family.
June 30, 2015
I am very sorry for your loss of such a wonderful man...his smile & his gentleness gave my family such a sense of peace. He literally saved my Dad in 1978.and kept him healthy for us until 1995!..I will always remember him in my nightly prayers. Peace to all of you. Francesca Papiano
Anne Llewellyn
June 27, 2015
Condolences to the Oaks Family. I am a nurse and worked at Hahnehmann in from 1978-1988. I worked in the Emergency Department and also the Respiratory ICU Dr. Oaks was always there for his patients and always willing to listen to their nurses. He was an excellent physician and always glad he was on...when we had someone sick. He was a mentor, educator and friend to so many people. He will be missed.
Edwin Wilson, MD
June 23, 2015
First, condolences to the Oaks Family in your loss, which we all share in some way as students and disciples of the great Bill Oaks. His passing is not only a loss to his family, but to medicine in general, to his former students and colleagues, and to his former patients. His impact and influence on all of the above will be felt for a long, long time. As a member of the Hahnemann Medical School Class of 1962, I was fortunate to be one of the group of ten "Straight" Internal Medicine Interns at Hahnemann in 1962-63 (which was the first in Philadelphia - all before that back then were "rotating internships") that a young Billy Oaks early in his career as director of intern and residency training recruited to a wonderful Internal Medicine training program at "The Old Hannigan". And "yes", we all used "The Bill Oaks Elevator", i.e., the stairs, to get from floor to floor. He was a "God broke the mold" mentor, inspiration, and role model who, if I close my eyes I can still see charging up the stairs from sick patient to even sicker patient, at the time dressed all in white himself, shirt sleeves rolled up above his elbows, always busy, always caring, always teaching. During that tumultuous time in the early sixties I was drafted into the Army out of Bill's Internal Medicine Program, and eventually landed in a different state and a totally different training program in a different medical discipline, but Bill Oaks will always be one of the most influential and unforgettable individuals I've ever met, not only in medicine, but in life in general. I became a better doctor, and a better man for having known him, and adopting some of his work habits ,ethics, and guiding principles. so, RIP Billy Oaks, finally at rest. You'll never be forgotten.
Michael Swank
June 22, 2015
I am greatly saddened by the passing of this great Physician and gentleman.On his clinical services in 1969 and 1970 he was the finest teacher of Medicine that I have ever seen. What we do in life echoes in eternity and his echo is magnificent.
Brad Linville
June 22, 2015
Jud, Cindy and Family - so sorry for your loss. A great man, incredible legacy through all of you and left a very wide swath on this world. Go Pards!!!
Harvey Buek
June 21, 2015
I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the family and do hope there can be some comfort, to you all, in the memory of a life well lived.
June 20, 2015
Our most sincere condolences to the entire family on this very sad occasion.
We are so fortunate to have known and spent time with Dr. Oaks thanks to our son Zachary being a Men's Soccer Leopard for four of the greatest years in my family's life. Being with Dr. Oaks during a game, listening to his Banquet speeches at the end of each season and just watching and listening to him talk to our Leopard players comprise memories that will last a lifetime.
All our best to each and every family member - you are all so blessed!
Don & Maggie Winthrop
Zachary Winthrop '13
Winnie Baden
June 20, 2015
With sincere, heartfelt sympathy to the beautiful family Billy loved so very much. For at least 55 years, I am honored to have known him and to call him my best friend. No matter the challenge or the distance, he found a way to be with family, to support friends and to care for the ill, when it truly mattered. Words cannot adequately express the loss of such a vibrant, honest, loving, gentle MAN of great character.
Dana Danforth Harkins
June 19, 2015
Sadden for the loss,
RIP Dr. Oaks. You will never be forgotten, Hahnemann will not be the same without you!
What a great man and always remember when he saw me, to mention the Upper Darby Royals.
Judy O'Shaughnessy
June 18, 2015
My condolences to the Oaks Family. Dr. Oaks was truly a kind and wonderful man and doctor. It was an honor to have known him and worked with him.
Rick Muntz
June 18, 2015
With sincere condolences to the family of a man who gave so much to us all. We are all so blessed to have known him let alone experienced his friendship and support. One of the most important figures in my life and as it turned out, for our whole family as he oversaw and marshaled resources to my Susan's miraculous recovery. Forever in debt for the truest example of God's love and grace!
June 18, 2015
despite Bill's jovial, congenial, easy going, etc demeanor, he was probably the most influential Hahnemann/Drexel faculty member for several generations...sadly missed...but greatly loved and appreciated and remembered for a lifetime...thanks for being with us Billy
bob capizzi
Robin Outtins
June 18, 2015
Dr. Oaks was a well liked man, he was such an icon at Hahnemann hospital. He wasn't my physician but I felt like he was because anything you had to ask or know he would give you the answer with a smile.. Such a great man he will be missed.
Thomas Ahern
June 18, 2015
Mrs. Oaks, Susan and family,
Please accept my deepest condolences! Dr. Oaks taught so many of us what a caring physician was.
Whether it was the middle of the night or during the day, his focus was to care for those in need.
I learned so much from watching him and I am a better physician because of him.
Living in California, I was with 3 other Hahnemann / Drexel graduates Saturday when I heard of his passing. We all were silent when we heard the news.
While I am a Lehigh guy, I can say there was no better then he.
Tom Ahern '81 Hahnemann
Jonanna Rochelle-Bryant
June 17, 2015
Dr. Oaks was a great physician but a greater man. I remember him fondly during my time at Hahnemann. R. I. P.
June 17, 2015
I learned so much from you when I was an RN at Hahnemann. Rest, peacefully Dr. Oaks.
Barb Augustine
June 17, 2015
I remember on a Sunday afternoon his patient needed to go to MRI across the street and the ambulance would not take him. Dr. Oaks put him in his Alfa Romeo drove him across the street and then brought him back.
He also did pt rounds in his hospital grown and a sports jacket while he was on call to go to the OR for his hip replacement. He was truly one-of-a-kind genuinely nice person and an unbelievable doctor.
June 17, 2015
MARYANNE-MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AND CONDOLENCES.WILL NEVER FORGET HOW HELPFUL HE WAS TO ME AT LAFAYETTE.TRULY WAS MY PLEASURE TO HAVE KNOWN HIM.KITTY AND JOE CALLAHAN
Virginia Hall, MD '72, FACOG, FACP
June 17, 2015
Dr. Wilbur Oaks was the embodiment of knowledge dressed with compassion, caring and grace. I was lucky to be on his service as a medical student. He loved medicine and he loved people equally well; he taught us that to be great physicians, high regard for each human being was paramount on the the road to healing and comfort. Thank you to his family for sharing him with us. May God comfort you as he receives his angel home.
Clay Barclay
June 17, 2015
Bill was the GREATEST physician I have ever known! My dear mentor and most of all, my friend. I will miss him as thousands of others will also.
Clayton Barclay MD FACEP Hahnemann 72
June 17, 2015
A role model to every student in every class.
A physician's physician.
Rest in peace
Scott Morse HU '78
Victor Elinoff
June 17, 2015
With fondness I remember Dr Oaks. He was a wonderful teacher who influenced my life as a physician with his enthusiasm and compassion and knowlegge. I was in the class of 74 during a tumultumous time for the Hahnemann and the med students. He was one of the bright lights I rmember from those difficult years.
Robin Palley
June 16, 2015
You were an amazing physician Wilbur. The many times you brought my dad through his medical crises. They colleague you were to my husband, the teacher you were to my daughter when she was in med school. What a legacy you leave....
Elzbieta Kowalski
June 16, 2015
Rest in Peace Dr. Oaks. You showed everybody compassion, devotion, and caring. You were the best example to follow. I remember about 10 years ago I was just about to start my Saturday night shift. We met in the elevator. I was wishing you to get some nice, well deserved rest over the weekend. You said: "Oh no. I still have to go down the shore to make one more house call. My patient is sick and he needs me."....
Never stopped caring for others.
It was an honor to know you.
My condolences to the Family.
Adele Weiss
June 16, 2015
The loss of Dr. Oaks marks the end of an era at Hahnemann. He left a legacy that will never be forgotten. I miss seeing him every day and talking sports and swaping stories about out families and their accomplishments. He had time for everyone, knew everyone's name and genuinely cared about everyone he came in contact with on a daily basis. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. He will never be replaced and will be greatly missed.
Michelle Mazza
June 16, 2015
Rest in peace Dr. Oaks. What a tremendous loss. You were the first person I was officially introduced to when I started at HUH and you smiled so brightly and welcomed me with open arms. It has truly been an honor to work beside you. Prayers go out to the entire Oaks family.
June 16, 2015
I'm sorry for the loss of your loved one. I hope the promise found at 1Thessalonians 4:14 offers you comfort.
Elaine Wurtenberg RN
June 16, 2015
Many positive things can be said about Dr. Oaks. Anyone who has come in contact with him, will say many of the same things. In a nutshell, he was the most wonderful man! I met him when I worked on the 20th floor at HUH. When my daughter was a patient there, he made a point to see her every day, even though he was not her doctor. That didn't stop him from assessing her pain level or listening to her lungs! That's just who he was. He will continue to be an inspiration to me, and will be missed.
Kevin Gerber
June 16, 2015
RIP to the greatest man that healthcare has ever seen. He was a true hero and inspiration to all who came in contact with him. I truly enjoyed every minute I got to work with him and I know I am the man I am today because of the lessons he instilled in me at the beginning of my career in the medical field. I owe every bit of my success to him and am saddened that we lost such an incredible human being. Until we meet again my friend. ❤
Prathibha Potharlanka, MD
June 16, 2015
There never was any heart truly great and generous, that was not also tender and compassionate ~ Robert Frost
Dr Oaks - truly a great doctor.
June 16, 2015
When there was no one else to watch over me at my sickest, Dr. Oaks was there for me. Time & time again he stood by me to make my life better. He really cared. I owe him more than I could ever repay. I'm truly sorry he has left us but he will practice with the greatest physician of all time. Maybe they can share stories of the past. God, I will miss this man.
kristy roakes
June 16, 2015
Rest in peace Dr. Oaks. Great doctor and kind soul.
Robert Shapiro
June 16, 2015
Of all the teachers in both college and medical school, Bill Oaks will always remain the most memorable. His dedication to teaching medical students, to providing compassionate and medically outstanding care to his patients, to his respect for everyone with whom he came in contact, to his teachings of personal commitment and professionalism will always be an important part of my life. Bill Oaks represented the best in medicine and the best in a personal life we should all seek to emulate.
We are all better people as a result of our time with this incredible doctor.
Robert Shapiro, MD HU 60
I have stood upon the shoulders of giants
david newman
June 16, 2015
Dr. Oaks was a wonderful teacher.
June 16, 2015
Dr. Oaks will never be forgotten. We was a wonderful human being and caring doctor. He will be missed by all, forgotten by none. We love you Oaksie R.I.P. Audrey Chism
Steven Rosner
June 16, 2015
Dr. Oaks was an incredibly knowledgeable, kind, and inspirational teacher. His influence on many physicians will continue to be positive force for years to come.
kelly dougherty
June 16, 2015
Dr. Oaks was a genuine blessing. He optimized what a doctor should be. Loved by all! I worked with Oaksie for 18 years and never did I not see the "gentleman" not smiling. RIP to a great man who dearly loved his family, his profession, his soccer and HIS PATIENTS! Thank u for sharing your life with us.
Donna S., RN
June 16, 2015
We loved you Dr Oaks!!! The world lost a Great, Wonderful, Kind,Compassionate, Over the top energetic man. A doc who never forgot a nurse's name & gave us the utmost respect. He will be FOREVER In our hearts!!
Dan Roth
June 16, 2015
Oaksie was the best. On a great Med A service at Hahnemann in 89-91, you had heavy duty rounds with Howie Miller and Ken Cohen. But with Oaks, you ran up and down the stairs and watched Oaks' singular style...highly personable tto the point of charm...work its magic on staff, patients, everyone. Yousaid to yourself...this is why I went into medicine and try to remember these days long into the future.
Peggy Smith
June 16, 2015
R.I.P. Dr. Oaks. Hahnemann Hospital has lost a very caring, loving Doctor. You will be missed. Thank you so much for all the care and advice you gave me as your patient.
June 16, 2015
I have never meet a more caring man or doctor such as Dr. Oaks. His smile spoke for itself and somehow he made everyone feel loved. He was a gentle soul and will be missed dearly. I worked with Dr. Oaks at Hahnemann and will never forget the compassion he showed to not only the staff but all his patients as well. You will be dearly missed Dr. Oaks. My heartfelt sorrow goes out to your family. May God bless you and your family.
Lynn Fiocca
Cecilia Midiri
June 16, 2015
It was an honor and pleasure to have the opportunity to meet Dr. Oaks. Even as a housekeeper he'd take the time to start a conversation. One day I had a headache and he could see the pain he asked what was wrong "young lady" so I told him of the pain, he took two fingers and pinched my cheek tapped my forehead and BOOM the headache was gone. I will miss seeing his face and tell tale walk through the corridors and most especially up and down the stairwells at HUH. Rest in peace kind doctor, rest well and may God wrap His loving arms around your family during this most sorrowful time.
June 16, 2015
My sincere condolences for your family. Dr. Oaks was one of my first teachers in medical school. I'm very lucky to have had the opportunity to be taught by him and observe his warmth and compassion with patients.
Sharon Vivaldi
June 16, 2015
What a great man! A constant on the sidelines cheering on all the Lafayette teams! He will be truly missed, yet his legacy will live on for many years to come.
Adrienne Christopher
June 16, 2015
Rip Dr Oak You will be missed from Hahnemann Hospital Housekeeping Department☆☆☆
Elinore and Harvey Kolodner
June 16, 2015
Wonderful man as well as a wonderful doctor.
June 16, 2015
My condolences to the family. I knew him as I am a retired RN. he was the most wonderful doctor I ever met. So caring, treated patients with dignity & respect. He was a gentlemen with all. Never disrespected the nurses or other health care personnel. May he rest in peace. Joan Langan RN
faith Thomas
June 16, 2015
ALWAYS pleasant and caring. Always with a smile. Always stopped to talk with the nurses. Dedicated, professional, caring and missed. We treasured you and will remember.
Suzanne Brittingham
June 16, 2015
My condolences to Mary Ann, Susan, Cindy and Sall Lou and their families. Bill was a special person who touched many, many lives through all walks of life. He will be missed by all those who knew him. May you rest in peace, Bill. Sue "Gerbie" Brittingham
Juanita Young
June 16, 2015
R. I. P Dr. Oaks....... Gone But Never Forgotten!!!!
HEAVEN BOUND!!!
June 16, 2015
Rest in peace Dr Oaks. You helped me become the person I am today. Jason Turowski.
Juanita Young
June 16, 2015
R.I.P Dr. Oaks
A Great Man...... Gone, but never forgotten!
HEAVEN BOUND
June 16, 2015
Rest in peace Dry. Oaks. One of the sweetest, kindest, most gentle human beings I have ever met. Thoughts and prayers to his family. ❤
Camille Miller
June 15, 2015
Rest in peace to one of the best Drs!! Everyone respected and loved Dr Oaks at Hahnemann!! He was so nice and kind to everyone...
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