Margaret "Peggy" Oakes' Obituary
Margaret "Peggy" Lane Oakes, born on March 8, 1947, in Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2025. She was the eldest of six children and was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Ethel Lane. Peggy is survived by her devoted husband, James Oakes; her three children, Liisa Caliendo, Lauren Oakes Hirsh, and Robert; her six cherished grandchildren; and her siblings.
Peggy’s life was a remarkable testament to courage, curiosity, and compassion. She began her career as an ER nurse and later joined the U.S. Air Force, where she selflessly cared for others with unwavering dedication. Her nursing journey continued as she returned to the ER for most of her career, and later as an oncology advice nurse— all roles that reflected her deep commitment to caring for others during their most vulnerable moments.
An adventurous spirit defined Peggy’s life. She traveled the globe with her family three times, exploring over two dozen countries and embracing the beauty of diverse cultures and languages. These experiences enriched not only her life but also those of everyone fortunate enough to hear her stories or share in her travels. Her kids were familiar with her peppering her sentences to them with bits of Arabic and occasionally Finnish.
In her 40s, Peggy discovered a love for martial arts that blossomed into a lifelong passion. She earned a black belt in Kenpo Karate and later earned a second black belt in jiu-jitsu while learning Japanese to deepen her connection to the art form. Her determination and curiosity were hallmarks of her character.
Peggy also found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. She had a special fondness for lemon bars and could quote every line of The Princess Bride. An enthusiastic fan of Star Trek, she brought humor and warmth into every room she entered. Known for making the best Chicken Piccata and for always singing around the house, Peggy filled everyday moments with love and laughter. A dedicated member of her church choir shared her love of music generously with those around her. She loved the Pacific. She loved the poem When I Am Old I Shall Wear Purple—a reflection of both her vibrant personality and zest for life.
A proud Oregonian at heart, Peggy delighted in fresh berries and Dungeness crab.
People immediately felt comfortable in her presence, and whether striking up long conversations with someone at the grocery store or befriending call agents over the phone, she had an extraordinary ability to connect with others through kindness and wit.
A celebratory memorial service will be held on January 18th at Truro Anglican Church in Fairfax, VA on Saturday, January 18th at 10am to honor Peggy’s incredible life. The service will be livestreamed here, https://www.youtube.com/live/5mHcjqHYUKc
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Five Talents USA www.fivetalents.org or to the American Alzheimer’s Association: www.act.alz.org
May Peggy’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her as they celebrate a life so beautifully lived. We rejoice that she is with the Lord.
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