Delroy Stanford Joseph Oka

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, and cousin, Delroy Stanford Joseph (DJ) Oka Jr who passed away in Fort Macleod, Alberta on June 26, 2023, at the age of 45. He now joins his mom, Bernadette Oka in the spirit world.

DJ was born May 22, 1978, in Cardston, Alberta. DJ is survived by his wife, Marina Cotton and their children, Natalie Cotton, his twins Mato & Zoey Cotton, Jamal Oka, MJ Iron Shirt, Jazmine Iron Shirt and Barry Iron Shirt. His dad, Delroy Oka and his siblings, Monica, Crystal (Ace), Jackie (Nolan), Brookes (Marcel), and Charlton (Harmony). His paternal auntie Ronalda (Patty) & Cyril Eagle Child, Geraldine Oka & Sharon Bottle and maternal uncle, Ross Black Water and auntie & DJ’s godmother, Delores (Jack) DenHollander. DJ’s special brother and sister are Eric Small Eyes Jr. & Teresa Brown Weasel; he was extremely close with their family. He was a proud uncle to his nieces and nephews, Billie, Whitney, Jesse, Carter, Kyle, Jacob, Millie, and Asher holding them in a special place in his heart. His was a great uncle to Lucas, Aalaiyah (Aya), and Kole.

DJ attended school at Cardston, St. Mary’s High School, and Red Crow Community College. When DJ was younger, he played hockey and as a family they travelled within Southern Alberta and went to Great Falls, Montana for hockey tournaments. As a child, DJ enjoyed the outdoors like all boys’ endless hours with trucks and mud. DJ was mischievous and adventurous; in summers he would cruise his bike with his cousins and friends in townsite.

DJ met Tashina Iron Shirt taking Jazmine Iron Shirt and Barry as his own children. DJ became a dad to his first child, Jamal Oka and his second child, MJ Iron Shirt.

DJ met Marina Cotton and together they had three children, Natalie Cotton, and his twins Mato & Zoey Cotton. DJ was such a proud dad, loved all his children so much, and dedicated to his family.

In his present life, he would find odd jobs and gain employment so that he could provide for his family. DJ would work beside his dad, Delroy, on construction contracts; Delroy would teach DJ the trades of construction. DJ often helped Wanda and Tannis Tail Feathers in any odd job they had for him. Our family would like to give a special thank you to Wanda & Tannis for always willing to help DJ out even if it meant a warm meal. DJ was kind, friendly, and had a giving heart, made you feel welcomed, and comfortable. He was helpful to family and friends when someone needed help. DJ made an impression on people by being so friendly and sharing his inspiring thoughts.

DJ was predeceased by his mother Bernadette Oka, his maternal grandparents Stanley Sr. and Theresa Black Water, Grandmother Dora Healy. Aunties -Sandra Black Water and Brenda Quesnelle, Uncles - Harley Black Water and Carl (Mittens) Black Water, Stanley Black Water Jr.; His paternal grandparents, Tom, and Madeline Oka. Aunties - Leita Big Sorrel, Evelyn Bird, Martha Oka Minoose, Mary & Dan Cardinal, Odile Day Chief, and Uncle- Alymer Oka. His stepmother, Wilomena Many Bears. As well as numerous cousins and other relatives. The family wishes to apologies if we have forgotten anyone.

DJ will be dearly missed by his family, especially by his wife, Marina, his children, his dad, Delroy, and his siblings. “Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8) Heaven gained another angel.

Delroy Stanford Joseph Oka Jr., of the Blood Tribe, passed away at Fort Macleod, Alberta, on Monday, June 26, 2023, at the age of 45 years.

A Candlelight Vigil was held at Centennial Park, 568 26 Street, Fort Macleod, Alberta, on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at 7:00 PM.

A Wake Service was held at Eden’s Funeral Home, 2424 5 Ave, Fort Macleod, Alberta, on Monday, July 10, 2023, from 6:00 PM until 12:00 AM.

A Funeral Service was held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Blood Tribe, on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 11:00 AM. Following the Funeral Service, Delroy was laid to rest at St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Blood Tribe.

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