Oliver Harold Hakala

April 21, 1923 – September 16, 2015

Oliver Harold Hakala passed away peacefully in his sleep after a short illness on Wednesday, September 16, 2015 in Oceanside, CA. Harold (Ollie) was a loving husband, father, uncle, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was 92 years young and loved life.

Harold was born on April 21, 1923 in Worcester, MA to Antti “Jimmy” and Maria Liisa (Hippi) Hakala.

Harold grew up in Massachusetts where he met the love of his life. Harold and Ruth (Coomey), his loving wife, began their life together on April 4, 1959. Together they loved to spend time with family and friends. Harold was passionate about his family, travel, and “cookouts”. He loved eating at his favorite Sidewalk Café – Costco, where he feasted on his favorite meal, a Polish Sausage hotdog. He was open to any adventure. Harold and Ruth loved to travel. Together they attended the PBY/Navy annual reunions around the world. They also made several adventurous trips to Finland, Ireland, England, Scotland, Germany, Australia, Canada, Panama Canal, as well as visiting all 50 States of the United States.

Harold began his military career in the Navy, and retired from the Air Force after 23 years of service. He served during the World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Harold was very proud to serve his country. He continued to keep in touch with the many friends in the service that became extended family to him.

Harold and Ruth moved to California after retiring from the military. They raised their six children in Highland, CA. and were members of the St. Adelaide Catholic congregation. Harold worked for the San Bernardino Unified School District. Upon retirement, he and his wife moved to Oceanside, CA where they have lived since 1987. In Oceanside, Harold and Ruth attended the Mission San Luis Rey Catholic Parish.

Harold enjoyed many activities during his retirement. He volunteered his time for many years helping his fellow veteran's and their family's with survivor benefits. Harold also enjoyed meeting his friends for lunch at the Oceanside Senior Center and playing Bingo at the Mission San Luis Rey. Harold enjoyed visiting family and friends, taking weekend trips, attending his grandchildren’s soccer games, and supporting people in his local community.

Harold loved his wife of 56 years, Ruth, who passed away in May 2015. Harold missed her dearly after she passed. He loved his family, and loved life. Harold is survived by his children, Harold “Skip” (Marcia), Maureen, James (Debra), Karen (Richard), Michael (Diane), John (Alex), and Daniel (Lissa); his sister in law, Shirley Coomey, and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Harold was predeceased by his wife - Ruth (Coomey) Hakala, his parents - Antti and Maria Liisa Hakala, his sisters –Ainie, Alice, Anne, his brothers – Eero, Eino, William, Henry, Veikko, and his granddaughters – Ashley and Katrina.

Harold believed in lifelong education and learning. He encouraged all his children and grandchildren to make learning and education a priority. Harold was a wonderful role model for his children and grandchildren. After retiring from the Air Force, Harold returned to school and completed his Associates degree.

Harold was a wonderfully kind, humble, generous, supportive, loyal, compassionate, unselfish, and loving person. He was an inspiration for everyone who knew him. His family and friends will miss him deeply, and will forever carry him in their hearts.

Harold will have a Viewing on Sunday, September 27th, 2015 from 4 to 8 pm at the Cypress Chapel, 24145 Barton, Loma Linda, CA 92354. The Rosary will be at 6 pm. The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2015, at 11:15 am. at the Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518, staging area #2.