Gary A. Oakes, 64, of New Britain, CT. passed away in his sleep Wednesday, July 23, 2014 at home. Gary was born in New Britain, CT. and was the son of Agnes (Langdon) Oakes of New Britain and the late Richard Oakes, a Master Army Sergeant, World War II Veteran. Gary retired as an electronic engineer and was an avid musician, organist and harmonica player. He was very proud of his Scottish/Irish heritage and celebrated his love for his heritage by playing the Great Highland bagpipes as well as the Irish Tin Whistle. Gary was also a member of Clans MacKenzie and Wallace. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War in the First Calvary Division, where he received the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Gary was an active Veteran Advocate, member of the American Legion, DAV and First Calvary Division, Connecticut Chapter.
In addition to Gary’s mother Agnes, he is survived by his four brothers, Kenneth, Robert, Richard and Roger Oakes, his sister Carolyn Oakes and several nieces, nephews, great nephews and nieces, as well as his beloved dog Buddy.
A Celebration of Gary’s life will be held Wednesday, July 30, 2014 at 11 a.m. from the Paul A. Shaker/Farmingdale Funeral Home, 764 Farmington Ave., New Britain, CT. Burial of Gary’s urn with full military honors will be in the Veteran’s section of Fairview Cemetery, 120 Smalley St., New Britain, CT. The American Flag will be presented to Gary’s mother Agnes. Relatives and friends may call at the Paul A. Shaker/Farmingdale Funeral Home, Tuesday from 5 -7p.m. Directions to funeral home I-84 East – West - Exit 37 (Fienemann Rd) right off exit – one mile down on right. To extend condolences to the Oakes family or to share a memory of Gary please visit our website @shakerfuneralhome.com

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