Ralph Warren Oakes of Mesa, AZ passed away April 6, 2016 at the age of 69. He was born in Fresno, CA on February 1, 1947 to David George and Vernora Iva [Sturdevant] Oakes. On May 4th 1964 Ralph achieved the award of Eagle Scout and later attended the National Boy Scout Jamboree held in Valley Forge. Ralph had a passion for woodworking and would create beautiful handcrafted wooden pens, he also enjoyed photography; he was an avid bowler and enjoyed golfing. In his younger years, he owned and operated a MAC Tool business and also worked as an auto mechanic. During the late 1960s to early 1970s, during the Vietnam War, Ralph proudly served in the U.S. Navy and was awarded the National Defense medal and the Vietnam Service medal with 2 Bronze Stars. Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 12 years, Janis Williams; his daughter Linda Pressley; son David Oakes; step children Dawna Taylor and Heath Hestand; brothers George and Steven Oakes; sisters Janet Whitener and Linda Ware as well as 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Ralph is preceded in death by his son Michael Oakes and his brother Paul Oakes. Arrangements entrusted to Mariposa Gardens
