Norman John Oakes 1936 - 2013
Foxearth Church was full to capacity on Friday 7th June for a service of thanksgiving for the life of Norman Oakes who lived in the village with his wife Pam for 12 years and who died on 23rd May. The service was conducted by Rev Val Gagen and began and ended with some favourite recorded music selected by Norman and the family. Norman was laid to rest in the churchyard.
In the first of three formal tributes, daughter Karen spoke movingly of a loving father who was “always there for his family”. Nothing was ever too much trouble and he was ever ready to lend a hand when there was something to be done. He relished a challenge this being particularly evident when Karen and her husband took on the renovation of a property. She recalled wonderful family Christmases and the pleasure that Norman would derive from his adored grand children – especially when he could make them laugh.
Clive Waite, Chairman of the local Parish Council, told how he first met Norman during the clearing-up after a Village Midsummer Ball. Having just moved into the village, Norman simply turned up and started to help and Clive found that they were near neighbours. Adopting his maxim that “your community won’t come to you – you must go to it” Norman became actively involved in village life serving on the Village Hall Trust. In 2007 he was elected onto the Parish Council where after four and a half years his service came to an end through illness. Norman and Pam formed a cornerstone of the village fete as their wheelbarrow collection of bottles for the Tombola was a yearly feature. On his allotment Norman was a familiar figure taking great pride in his vegetables and he voluntarily took on a role of water monitor to ensure a supply for his colleagues. In every sense, Norman was a true gentleman.
According to son-in-law Ian Peart “don’t fuss” was one of Norman’s favourite sayings – but today it was right that we should make a fuss about someone who would do absolutely anything for his family and who was so greatly loved. Born in Woolwich in 1936 Norman had an early interest in clocks and became apprenticed to the craft in 1951. The hard work that was so typical of him led to him eventually establishing his own business. Norman was interested in all sport and played golf whenever the opportunity arose: the fact that he might take 7 or 8 strokes to reach the green would never affect his happy approach to the game! An adventurous side to his character was shown as he tried sky-diving and deep sea fishing – and he would willingly test a new whiskey! He had a clear sense of what was right e.g dressing smartly, being polite – and what was wrong, rudeness and paying to park!
Readings were contributed by daughter Janine Peart and sister Brenda Grimaldi.
To Pam and the family we express our sincere condolences at the loss of a dearly loved member. The village will greatly miss a respected man whose cheery smile and helpful attitude were immediately apparent to all who met him.
Ken Nice