James Oakland

James Delton Oakland, 96, of Corsica, SD passed away peacefully on March 25, 2025 at Good Samaritan Nursing Home surrounded by family and his care team.

Jim was born on August 9, 1928 in Harrison, SD to Edgar and Dena (VanArendonk) Oakland. He attended country school through grade eight then chose to work alongside his dad and Uncle George on their family homestead farm. Jim was the third generation to farm the Oakland Homestead.

At the age of 22 Jim served three years in the Korean War stationed at Fairbanks, Alaska. Upon his return he pursued a courtship with Cecelia Ann Kosters and soon to be wife. They enjoyed 70 years together. They celebrated their 70th anniversary on December 10, 2024. 

Jim enjoyed motorcycles, tractors, and his beautiful farm. Did I say Tractors!!! He was a member of the American Legion and served on several boards. Jim attended Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Stickney, SD. When Jim and Cecelia moved to Leisure Living they became members of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Corsica, SD.  Jim was an active part of his community enjoying all the activities of church and the neighborhood.

Jim is survived by his wife, Cecelia; his sister Joanne Schaffeld; his two children: son Donovan (Mary) Oakland and their five children: Amy (Bryan) VanderPol, Tracy (Mike) Reed, Jen (Darin) DeLange, Jami (Justin) Pricket, Lindsy (Jdee) Schmidt, 16 great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren; and daughter Wanda (Ralph) VanAuken and their five children: Christopher, Joshua, Felicia, Danielle and Sarah, three great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents Edgar and Dena Oakland, his sister Maureen DeVries, and great grandson Brock Bordewyk.

A Celebration of Life for James Oakland, age 96, of Corsica, SD will be held on Monday, March, 31, 2025 at 11 AM at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Corsica, SD. Burial will be at 2 PM at the Ebenezer Lutheran Cemetery, Harrison, SD. Visitation will be 10 to 11 AM the morning of the Celebration of Life Service.