Brent Ecklev Oakley

Brent Ecklev Oakley, beloved son of Janet and Rolf Oakley, passed away in his sleep on June 14, 2025. Born in Bellingham, WA on June 22, 1981, he grew up here loving the outdoors, enjoying such activities as bicycling, backpacking, and skiing. He participated in the Ski to Sea race for several years doing the downhill skiing event. He also never missed a chance to ride the trails on Galbraith Mountain and once rode in the Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic. Brent was a lifelong Boy Scout achieving the rank of Eagle and continued to volunteer with the next generation. Among his many scouting adventures, his favorites were with his patrol hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail, riding through the San Juan islands, and paddling through the Bowron Lakes. For his project, he and his crew of volunteers improved a section of trail at the Clayton Beach parking area. During his high school and college years, Brent loved playing guitar and piano and composing music with many friends, performing in several groups around the town. Though he attended only two years of college at Western Washington University, he was always trying to learn new things and improve his education. His most recent joy this spring was a photography class at Whatcom Community College. He had plans to continue his studies this fall in graphic design and video production. Brent was a kind and sensitive person who made friends everywhere he went. He was very much loved and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his mother, Janet Oakley, brothers Matt Oakley (Sarah) and John-Rolf Oakley (Nash), niece and nephew Lily and Max Oakley and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Rolf M. Oakley. In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting acts of kindness for strangers, or if you wish, donating to Whatcom NAMI at: NAMI Whatcom P.O. Box 5571 Bellingham, WA 98227