Clifford Norman Oakes

Clifford “Norman” Oakes February 18, 1934 – October 5, 2025

Clifford “Norman” Oakes passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, in Salem, Oregon, at the age of 91. Norman was born on February 18, 1934, in Junction City, Oregon, to Harry “Clifford” Oakes and Lillian Augusta Oakes. He grew up on the family homestead in Bellfountain, Oregon until the age of 12 when he moved to Turner, Oregon where he developed a lifelong love of the outdoors and hard work.

On April 16, 1955, Norman married the love of his life, Winogene “Gene” Oakes, in Stayton, Oregon. Together, they raised four daughters Karen, Leslie, Cindy, and Debbie. Norman and Gene would fill their daughters’ lives with family trips, adventures, and countless cherished memories.

Norman began his career in construction, helping to build dams across the region, before discovering his true passion for welding and design. In 1972, he transitioned into the amusement industry, where his skill and creativity flourished. Over the years, Norman designed and built iconic carnival rides such as the Paratrooper, Hurricane, Round Up, and Super Slide. His creations would bring joy and excitement to countless families across the country. He retired in 1996, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.

Throughout his life and through his daughter’s childhood, Norman loved to take his boat out. He would take the boat to Detroit for convenience and Diamond Lake, Suttle Lake and explore many places in Oregon. In retirement, Norman enjoyed simple pleasures such as Saturday night dinners out with his daughters, listening to classic country music, and baking apple pies. Norman was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather who will be forever remembered for the devotion and love for his family.

Norman was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gene, in 2019; his grandson, Eric Harrison; his parents; three sisters; and two brothers. He is survived by his daughters Karen Oakes, Leslie (Ken) Tennies, Cindy Johnson, and Debbie Oakes; grandchildren Jodi, Kenny, Omar, Jacob, Tyler and Bailey; great-grandchildren Matthew, Payton, Devon, Verity, and Felix; and one great-great-grandchild, Eric.

A viewing will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. at Weddle Funeral Service. Private inurnment will take place at Cloverdale Cemetery in Turner, Oregon.