Danny Oaks

Jan. 19, 1953 – March 14, 2025

Danny Oaks, beloved husband, father and papa, passed away surrounded by family at his home in Arizona on March 14, 2025.  

Danny was born on January 19, 1953, in Vernal, Utah, to Dan L. Oaks and Lily Alberta Heal Oaks. He was the middle child between two brothers, Eddie and Eric. They grew up in Maeser, Utah. 

Danny learned how to work hard and serve his neighbors by helping out on the family farm, raising livestock and farming hay. He was involved in FFA and 4-H, successfully raising and showing prize sheep. He loved the outdoors and spent much time hunting, fishing and camping. This sparked a love of exploration throughout his entire life. 

He excelled in multiple sports including baseball, basketball, bowling and water skiing. He also began a passion for motors and wheels while in his youth; he loved classic and muscle cars and motorcycles. He was fascinated by taking motors, small and big, apart and figuring out how things work. 

He learned to use his hands to craft beautiful wood pieces. His early interests served him and others well later in life. His children knew whatever it was, Dad could build it or fix it. 

He graduated from Uintah High School in Vernal and went on to Utah Technical College in Salt Lake City, where he graduated with a degree in auto mechanics. 

Danny was married to his sweetheart, Lorna Murray, who he affectionately referred to as his “One and Oney” for more than 51 years. Three children were born to this union, Candida (Michael) Jones, Amanda (Boe) Buchholz and Nicholas M. (Beth) Oaks. Nine grandchildren called him Papa, Madyson Nicole Jones, Lily Marie Jones, Katie Jo Jones, Ada Mae Buchholz, Gabriel Boe Buchholz, Bonnie Jane Buchholz, Thomas Danny Buchholz, Rylan Nicholas Oaks and Brynlee Grace Oaks. He adored his kids and grandkids and made many cherished memories with them. 

A few months after his marriage to Lorna, he went to work for Baroid/Halliburton and retired after 47 years with them. He spent most of his career in management and supervisory positions. He provided well for his family, giving them new experiences and strong familial bonds as he transferred to eight different cities in Utah, Wyoming, South Dakota and Arizona. Danny had a strong work ethic and was dedicated to lifelong learning and improvement. 

Danny’s life was one of service to others; he served tirelessly without complaint in many leadership callings in his church. He was always willing to help a family member, neighbor, friend or stranger.  

He also took time to play hard and enjoy life to the fullest with family and friends. His interests are too many to mention. It is safe to say he was well rounded and a jack of all trades. 

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Lily Oaks, and brother James Edwin Oaks. 

He is survived by his wife, Lorna Oaks, children, grandchildren, brother Eric D. Oaks and many sisters- and brothers-in-law and nieces and nephews whom he loved. 

He will be missed beyond words. We love you forever, our Dad, Papa and Husband. Until we meet again, rest in peace.