Virgil Lee (Papaw) Oakes, age 73, died peacefully in his sleep at his home on January 19, 2013.

He was born to Johnny and Cliva (Stidham) Oakes on July 9, 1939, in Lee County, Virginia.

He was happily married for 46 years to Patty (Belcher) Oakes. They resided in Gary, Ind.

He is survived by his children Lisa (Billy, preceded in death) Witte of Chesterton, Ind., Johnny (Stacy) of Demotte, Ind. and Dennis (Michelle) of Valparaiso, Ind.; his precious grandchildren, Johnny, Bree, Amber, Billy, Ryan, Sydney, Abby, Madison and Savanah.

Also surviving are his siblings Ann (Nick) Crowley, Kenny (Patricia) Oakes, Delia (Roger) Hunter, and Freddy (Sarah) Oakes.

He retired from General Motors. He was a member of the Free Masons. He loved being with family, fishing, and listening to Bluegrass music.

The wake will be at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, Ind., on Saturday, January 26, from 10:00 to 11:00 am. The funeral will follow immediately at 11:00 am.

The family is asking in lieu of flowers that monetary donations be given to help with the cost of the funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.ee-fh.com