Justin Russ Oakeson

Justin Russ Oakeson, fondly known as Gus, of Oakley, Utah, passed away on March 21, 2024, at the age of 43. He was born on December 27, 1980, to Dee Oakeson and Melanie Whitesides, who welcomed him with overflowing joy.

Raised in Union, Utah, Justin attended Hillcrest High School, graduating in 1999. He was a valued member of the Oquirrh High School Rodeo team, where he showcased his talent in bull-doggin, calf roping, and team roping.

Continuing his passion for rodeo, Justin attended Utah State University's Vernal campus, where he actively participated in the Rodeo Team, further honing his skills in the arena.
On July 8, 2005, Justin married the love of his life, Laurel Elbert, in a beautiful ceremony in Deer Valley, Utah. Together, they were blessed with two precious children, Asher Charles and Maddie Pearl, who filled Justin's heart with immeasurable joy and love.

Professionally, Justin worked for Cody Group, under the guidance of his father-in-law, Bob, where he found fulfillment in his work and built cherished relationships.

Justin's athletic prowess extended beyond the rodeo arena to the baseball field, where he excelled as a little league player. He played 10 years with the Fort Union Little league Association and was selected for the all-star team every year. During this time, he affectionately earned the nickname “crazy legs” from his teammates and coaches because he had the longest legs of any players.

In his leisure time, Justin enjoyed skiing, embracing the thrill of the slopes with his own daring style. His mother tried to teach him the “correct” way to ski, but Justin had his own unique way of skiing He cherished the opportunity to share his love for skiing with his children, Asher and Maddie, creating precious family memories.

A true cowboy at heart, Justin was born to ride, cowboy, and train horses. He had an innate connection with horses, admired for his smooth and effortless riding style, a skill he inherited from his father, whom he deeply admired. They shared a special bond, often discussing rodeos and their shared love for the Western way of life.

Survived by his beloved wife, Laurel, and their cherished children, Asher and Maddie. Justin leaves behind his devoted parents, Melanie Whitesides and Dee (Lisa) Oakeson, as well as his loving siblings: Jamie (Cameron) Bangerter, Casey (Jennifer) Bergstrom, Katie Bergstrom, Megan Bergstrom, and his Grandmother VeaJean Hamilton. 

In addition, he leaves behind his cherished Aunt and Uncle, JoAnn (Steve) McIntyre, along with his cousins: Jodie (Ira) Sorensen, Kellie (Joel) Sundquist,  Aunt Tina Whitesides, cousins Julie Whitesides Hulme (Allen), Jimmy Whitesides , (Jenny), and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Justin is also survived by his dear parents-in-law, Bob (Vickie) Elbert, and his respected brother-in-laws: Dan (Ida Bergstrom) Elbert, Jordan (Katie) Elbert, Clayton (Amber Popejoy) Elbert, and Derek (Sarah) Elbert.

He was preceded in death by his beloved Grandparents Russ and Pearl Oakeson, Dick and Phyllis Whitesides, and Daro Hamilton his uncles, Jim Whitesides and Rock Oakeson.
Justin's memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, laughter, and cowboy spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

A procession to graveside services at the Oakley North Bench Cemetery will leave the Oakley Red Barn, 4300 N. UT-32, at 12:00 noon on Saturday, March 30, 2024.  Following graveside services a Celebration of Life open house will be held back at the Red Barn. 

Dress appropriate for Justin, cowboy attire preferred. 

The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to the University of Utah medical team.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on Venmo @maddieandasher to the Maddie and Asher dream fund.