VINALHAVEN — Russell Lee Oakes died unexpectedly on his 70th birthday, Tuesday, February 23, 2021.

He was born on Feb. 23, 1951 in Vinalhaven to Alton F., Jr. and Cynthia Tupper Oakes. Russ attended Vinalhaven Schools, graduating in 1970.

Upon graduation, Russ worked for Brud Carver in E.G. Carver’s Grocery. He did multiple jobs and enjoyed driving the delivery truck. He especially loved delivering at Christmas when many households gifted him holiday treats! When Carver’s store closed, Russ moved to Bob Candage’s grocery, where he made many life-long friends. Eventually, he took a job at the Vinalhaven Public Works where he worked on the roads and drove equipment. In recent years Russ worked for Billy Mills, again driving equipment and working on roads.

Russ had two main loves in life, cars and music. He owned many cars throughout his life, however according to friends, a ‘76 Monte Carlo was a particular favorite. Over the years Russ attended many NASCAR races with his good friend, Dana, hitting many tracks around the around the country. Russ was also a member of the Owls Head Transportation Museum, and enjoyed attending Sunday events. When it came to music, Russ had acquired a massive record collection. He drove his parents crazy with his stereo system blasting. As Russ did not play an instrument, his close friend, David, suggested he become the “manager” for the local teen band, the “Dimensions” who played at “The Pier” for many years.

Russ was a member of the Moses Webster Lodge (Masons) on Vinalhaven, having joined in 1974. His post was chaplain. Russ enjoyed the simple things in life, such as attending the Monday Lunch Box, sitting and visiting with friends at the Post Office or attending programs put on by the Vinalhaven School. He loved his cat, who moved in as a stray and remained nameless. He was a kind, hard-working man.

Russell is survived by his mother, Cynthia Tupper Oakes; his sisters, Karen Oakes and Jill Oakes (Alan Koenig); and his nephew and niece, Joseph Pratt (Amanda) and Whitney Breault (Robert). He has three great nephews and one great niece.

He was predeceased by his father, Alton F. Oakes, Jr. in 2012, his paternal grandparents, Alton and Agnes Oakes and maternal grandparents, Ira and Evelyn Tupper.

A private service will be held at the Pleasant River Chapel in March officiated by Robert Candage. Donations in Russ’ name would be welcomed for the Monday Lunch Box, c/o Candi Barton, Union Church, Vinalhaven.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

To share a memory or condolence with Russ’ family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.