VINALHAVEN — Robert Ernest Oakes, Sr., 80, husband of Catherine (Ames) Oakes, died on July 23, 2025 surrounded by close friends and family at his home. Born on August 28, 1944 in Vinalhaven, he was the son of Donald Oakes, Sr. and Mabel (Wadsworth) Oakes.  Bob served in the U.S. Army in Viet Nam until 1967, then returned to Vinalhaven. On June 13, 1968, he married Catherine Ames. 

Primarily a commercial lobsterman most of his life, Bob also had done purse seining, bought and sold lobsters, and plumbing. In his earlier years, he had served 20 years with the Vinalhaven Fire Department. For 20 years, Bob and Catherine owned the “Burger-Ped” a local restaurant.

Bob was known for his independent personality and was “always right”. He enjoyed spending time at home surrounded by family and friends. He and his wife, loved to dance and were known for clearing the dance floor on many occasions to demonstrate their talent.

Surviving is his wife of 57 years, Catherine Oakes; three children, Robert Oakes, Jr. and his wife Irene of Rockland, Hollie Hamilton and her husband Jason, Colby Oakes and his wife Wanda, all of Vinalhaven; nine grandchildren, Ashley, Gilleyanne and husband Reese, Brielle, Jazmine, Keon and wife Paige, Dalton, Jonathan, Garrett and Jacoby; 7 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Frederick Oakes and Blanchard Oakes.

A private family memorial will be held in the future. 

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com. Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.