Marlborough – Clarence J. “Oakie” Oak, 89, of Marlborough, died Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016 at Marlborough Hospital, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Linda (Augusto) Oak for the past 66 years.
He was born in Lynn, the son of the late Arthur and Lillian (Berthiaume) Oak, and was raised and educated in Marlborough. He graduated from Marlborough High School in 1945, but missed his graduation ceremony because he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country during World War II in the Asiatic Pacific Theater.
Oakie was a tinsmith and owned and operated C.J. Oak Sheet Metal in Marlborough for over 20 years, retiring in 1991.
Oakie stood 6’4” and was the center for Marlborough High School Football team and led them to the State Finals, winning the Championship, and he also played for the basketball team. He was later inducted to Marlborough High School Hall of Fame.
Oakie was an avid golfer and enjoyed candlepin bowling and fishing. He was a life member of AHEPA Chapter 105, lifetime member of Marlborough Country Club, member of the of the Moose Lodge 1129, Hudson Eagles, American Legion Post 132, Lifetime member of VFW Post 638, and Italian American War Veterans #45.
Besides his wife, Linda, he leaves his son, Fred J. Oak and his wife Lois of Northborough; his daughter, Judy A. Cowdrey of Marlborough; six grandchildren, Sandra, Bill, Jim, Erin, Matt, and Lynne; 18 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and five nephews and nieces. He was the brother of the late Jim Oak of Marlborough, who died in 1967.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Aug. 12, at 11 a.m., in Immaculate Conception Church, Prospect Street. Burial with military honors will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Wilson Street. Calling hours will be held Thursday, Aug. 11, from 5-8 p.m., in the Fitzgerald & Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln St.
Flowers may be sent or donations in his memory may be made to www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
