Charles H. Oakes II, multi-talented musician
Charles H. Oakes II passed away peacefully Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2021. Charles was born May 24, 1949.
He married Wendi DeMartyn Oct. 21, 1972. They had two children, Tina Kelly and her husband Matthew, and Charles Oakes III and his fiancée Andrea. Charles was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Charles Oakes IV, Bradley Oakes, Alayna Kelly, Brielle Kelly and Ava Oakes.
Charles graduated from Susquenita High School in 1967. He played keyboard, guitar and vocals with The Donshires from 1966-67.
Charles was a member of Perry Lodge #458 and served as grand master in 1985 and 2008. He sponsored Chuck Oakes IV into the lodge in 2018. He was past president of the Perry-Juniata Shrine Club, Zembo Luncheon Club and a member of the Zembo Motorcycle Touring Unit.
Prior to retiring to Delaware, he could be found every morning at the Marysville Diner where many considered him the unofficial mayor. His frequency at the diner made the topic of conversation in Alayna’s fourth-grade class. “Charlie Oakes at the diner” stories became so popular that he called their class to congratulate them on their last day of elementary school.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.
Charles will be buried at Union Cemetery at a private ceremony.
Online condolences can be made by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
