John "Steve" Oakley

John Steven Oakley, more commonly known as “Oak,” was born September 19, 1954. He was the only child of John and Mabel (Colerick) Oakley. Steve lived most of his life in Auburn, Nebraska, where he graduated from Auburn High School in 1972. Steve and Joyce (Gobber) were married in Syracuse, Nebraska, December 3, 1977. They had two children, Stacy and Kyle.

For many years, Steve was active in the Auburn community, where he coached for the American Legion baseball team, assisted with the organization of the 1st Annual Alumni Basketball Tournament, and was instrumental in bringing several girls state softball tournaments to Auburn. Steve was a devoted salesman at Johnson Motor Company and then Meyer Auto Sales for over 30 years. He took a lot of pride in his hometown and serving his loyal customers.

After retirement, Steve and Joyce moved to Elkhorn. He loved keeping busy with his grandchildren’s activities and attended games every chance he got. Most days, you could find him sitting outside with their dogs, Chester and Briggs, waiting for the grandchildren to walk to their house after school. Steve and Joyce enjoyed traveling and creating memories on vacations with their close friends.

Steve suffered a massive heart attack on June 28th while doing what he loved most, watching his grandson’s baseball game. After a stent was placed and exhaustive care was given by the staff at Bergan Mercy hospital, Steve passed away on July 12, 2025.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Joyce, daughter Stacy (Matt) Schieber of Elkhorn and son Kyle (Karrington) Oakley of Lincoln. Grandchildren William, Sophie, Benjamin, and Jack Schieber, and Spencer Oakley, brother-in-law Ray and Mary Gobber of Lincoln, and many cousins.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents John and Mabel and sister-in-law, Carolyn Gobber.

A private burial service will be held on Friday, July 25th followed by a celebration of life at Arbor Manor Steakhouse from 4-6pm in Auburn, Nebraska.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorials be sent to:

Auburn American Legion Baseball

c/o Joe Casey

P.O. Box 215

Johnson, Nebraska 68378

Or

Mount Michael Legion Baseball

c/o Matt Schieber

21285 Rawhide Road

Elkhorn, Ne 68022