Herbert Leroy Oakley, age 89, passed away on Saturday, March 30, 2013. Herb was born November 1, 1923 in Columbus, Ohio; he was the son of the late Steven and Mary Oakley. Also preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years Florence “Katty” Oakley; daughter Melody Oakley Cermak; brothers Robert, Paul and Charles; and sister Virginia. He is survived by his son Mark; son-in-law Greg Cermak; grandchildren Matthew and Theresa Cermak; nieces and nephews. A successful businessman, he owned and operated Herb Oakley Cleaners. During that time, he served as president of the Dry Cleaners Guild. A veteran of the US Army, Herb served in the 101st Airborne, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment; parachuted into France on D-Day, defended Bastogne in the Battle of the Bulge; attended regimental reunions and was a VFW member. He became a licensed pilot, and loved to fly. At the request of the family there will not be services for Hebert at this time.
