BUCKSPORT – Wendell Merle Oak, 83, passed away peacefully Thursday afternoon, Oct. 21, 2010, at a Brewer health care facility, after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Skowhegan, the son of Mildred Russell and Irvin Oak. Wendell entered the U.S. Navy immediately after graduation from Skowhegan High in 1944, and served throughout World War II. He graduated from the University of Maine in 1951 with a degree in civil engineering, and worked at St. Regis mill, Bucksport, for 41 years, retiring in 1996. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing at his beloved camp on Brassua Lake. He was also a very loyal Red Sox fan. He is survived by his son, John Oak of Bucksport; brother, Allen Oak of Cincinnati; brother, Ivan Ray Oak of Hondo, Texas; his 106-year-old aunt, Mary Russell Foss of Madison; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews. He also leaves behind many other family members, as well as many neighbors and friends. Wendell was predeceased by his parents; and by his beloved wife of 52 years, Antoinette Paradis Oak. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct 26, at Stella Maris Parish, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Bucksport, where he was a member for many years. After the Mass, there will a reception for all in the lower level church hall. Interment will be at a future date at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Rockwood. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to American Cancer Society, 1 Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300, Topsham, ME 04086 or by calling 1-800-227-2345. Arrangements made by Mitchell-Tweedie Funeral Home, 28 Elm St., Bucksport.
WENDELL MERLE OAK
