Melvin Lee Oakes

Age 74, passed away in Rochester NY on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, as the result of a fall. Melvin is predeceased by his parents Milton, Sr. and Artie Oakes, brother Milton Oakes, Jr., and sister Barbara Oakes who died on October 4, 2022. He is survived by his loving wife Connie Hulslander Oakes.

Melvin was a U S Marine Corps veteran serving his country during the Viet Nam War, earning three Purple Hearts. He was chosen by Admiral John McCain, Sr., of the Pacific Fleet, to be his bodyguard. Melvin graduated from Elmira College with a B.S. Degree in Respiratory Therapy. He retired from Corning Hospital where he was a Supervisor Respiratory Therapist.

Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Thursday, October 20, 2022 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. Interment, with military honors, will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Flowers are respectfully declined. Those wishing may remember Melvin with a donation to Toys for Tots at toysfortots.org, or Chemung County Humane Society, 2435 County Route 352, Elmira NY 14903.