Luanne Oakes

February 19, 1953 – February 15, 2011

Luanne Oakes of Reno, Nevada passed away on February 15, 2011. Born in California on February 19, 1953, she grew up in California and as an adult moved to Guerneville and Santa Barbara. She considered Santa Barbara as her home until her move to Truckee and later to Reno for the last fifteen years.

First as a registered nurse and later a holistic doctor with more than 37 years in the field of healing, Dr. Oakes is best known for her ability to successfully integrate Western and Eastern philosophies of science, spirituality and health. She has written a number of bestselling books and numerous recordings, as an accomplished composer and musician. Her many talents also include singing, drawing and painting.

One of her lifelong passions was animal rescuing, and she has provided loving homes for many formerly abandoned pets. Her affinity for animals was reinforced by her work for a veterinarian all through high school and her first years of college. Hiking with her dogs was always a joy.

Luanne is survived by her life partner, Laura Goff, her mother Anne Oakes, brother Toby Oakes, cousins Pete Nevin, Nancy Gordon and Greta Wright, and the Bakker cousins ~ Gail, Rick and Karen, and two very special uncles ~ Bud Nevin and Percy Bakker. She is also greatly missed by her other family ~ mom Susan Gates, sisters Shari Jones and Lauri Holloway, brothers Michael Gates and David Gates and many treasured friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sat. May 14th at Truckee Regional Park lower river BBQ, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. bring lawn chairs and shade. Share music and stories of a wonderful life. For more information call Pete at (775)750-4446.