June Yukiko Oakes

OAKES, June 1926 ~ 2011 June Oakes quietly departed on July 15, 2011 holding the hand of her loving companion and surrounded by family in Spokane, Washington. Her full life of 85 years will be celebrated for the strength and grace she demonstrated throughout. Born in Japan the youngest of a large family, she married and moved to the United States traveling with her husband for his work to other countries with their children. Wherever she lived she made sure her family came first and held true to her values. She passed those beliefs and values on through example and respect. She kept active whether doing chores, crocheting bootie/slippers or line dancing and she made every moment of her life meaningful. Even in her quiet moments you knew her mind was still busy. Nine years ago she met Bob at a Valentines Dance and it brought sparkle into her life. They have danced, toured, cruised, enjoyed family together and created lasting memories of great adventures. Many friends have enjoyed being close with June as she has shared her artistic talents of glass etching, pine needle weaving, beading, china painting and other untold skills. We all believe it has been a privilege to be part of her life and she has been a blessing to have in our lives: SON: Carlton Oakes (wife-Ginger) – Spokane Washington, DAUGTHER: Patty Kaufman (husband-Bryan) Overland Park, Kansas, DAUGHTER: Kathy Montgomery (husband- Phil), SON: Haruhiko Matsuoka (wife- Kazuko) Fukuoka, Japan, GRANDCHILDREN: Reid Oakes, Jason Oakes, Ryan Kaufman, Blake Kaufman, Garret Montgomery, Toru Matsuoka, Akiko GREAT GRANDCHILDREN: Sarah Oakes, Paul Oakes , Shunki Matsuoka, Yuuki Matsuoka, Ira, Yura June’s final days were attended by family members and with nursing assistance from Kathy of Family Home Care. The Family wishes to thank Kathy for all of the support. We also appreciate the handholding and hugs of family friend/sister Kathi Oliver. In lieu of flowers family requests donations be made to your favorite charitable organization in June’s name.