Jay Oine, age 70, of Stanchfield died November 3, 2020 at home. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Jay was born on October 17, 1950 to Don Oine and Inez (Schon) Moeschler. He grew up and attended school in New Hope and graduated from Robbinsdale High School in 1968.
Jay married the love of his life Maureen O’Neill on October 19, 1974 in Stanchfield, MN. They moved to a small farm and spent many years fixing up their house, completely remodeling it from the basement up. In 1977, they welcomed their first son, Jesse, followed by Jayson one year later. Jay was a proud union carpenter for many years, working on such projects as the construction of the Wild River State Park Interpretive Center. In later years, he managed Martin’s on Main and was an active member of the community. He was a dedicated father, passing along his knowledge, love of skiing and fishing, and taking family and friends on trips up to the North Shore and into the Boundary Waters. Jay was known as one of the most vocal Cambridge Bluejacket football supporters when his boys were in high school and was most proud of the men they became. After developing debilitating rheumatoid arthritis, a condition he suffered from the rest of his life, he found another passion and worked as a historical interpreter at the Northwest Fur Post in Pine City, where he educated the public and was well-known and liked as “Joseph the Voyageur.” Jay embraced the life and learnings of this experience and it encouraged his involvement in Native American history and life, which became a major focus and passion of his remaining years. He participated in the annual Sun Dance Ceremony and volunteered at St. Joseph’s Home for Children. Jay also was involved in the Isanti County DFL over many years and made sure he voted on Tuesday afternoon. He cared deeply for people, never shying away from speaking his mind and advocating for justice.
Jay will be remembered most for his love for his family, friends, the MN North Shore, Native life, history, rock collecting, 8th district DFL politics, and fighting for the last and the least. His passion, big heart, and care for others will be remembered and carried forward by all he touched.
Jay passed suddenly on November 3rd, 2020 at the age of 70.
Jay is survived by his wife, Maureen O’Neill; two sons, Jesse O’Neill-Oine, his wife Melissa Walker and their children Jane, Liam and Margaret; and Jayson O’Neill-Oine and by other relatives.
“So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people.”
― Chief Tecumseh
Maureen, Jesse and Jayson …. Our deepest regrets and sympathy for Jay’s sudden passing. I have clear memories of his strong and deep passion for progressive issues and causes. Also memories of some 8th District Conventions where everybody gets energized. It was also cool that I did meet and speak with “Joseph the Voyageur” a couple times. Love and Peace !!
Maureen, Jesse and Jayson I and as sorry to read in the paper of Jay’s passing. I worked as an election judge and we talked for a few seconds. How I wish I had spent more time with him. I always enjoyed Jay while working at Martin’s. Peace to all
Mona Nastrom
Maureen, Jesse, Jayson family and friends.
Sorry to hear about Jay’s passing.
My good memories of Jay started long ago at the weekend parties, sitting around the fire drinking, eating good food and playing guitar, and that was around the time when I first started playing guitar with my brother Scott.
Over the years debating of topics, of which a few like a dead horse we should have walked away from. And others we seen eyes to eye on. But Jay always aloud me with grace my dignity of my opinion.
I had fun working for Jay building that house next door. And many other good memories I will hold onto that bring smiles to my face.
I’m pretty sure
Jay would agree that,
“Time and people pass but memories, family and friends are forever and the one thing that heals the heart and soul in times of adversity” but I’m sure Jay would have more to say on this topic.
Just know you are in my thoughts and memories also.
Take care with sincere regards.
Cory Ebeling
Jay was a freind, he always made sure you knew it. As brother Cory said, the parties and BBQ’s are some of my favorite memories of living in Minnesota.
Grant us all the ability to appriciate and cherish the memories of our youth and how we progressed over the years to look back and see how others guided us to be who we have become.
I got to see Jay when I was back for a visit a year ago August, it was so good to connect with Jay again. Rest in peace brother Jay.
Hello Maureen, Jesse, and Jayson. I was very saddened to learn of Jay’s death yesterday. I have so many fond memories of our families spending time together growing up. Watching softball games, going for walks with Zeke and Lena, meeting up to swim at Ruth and Rogers, getting in trouble with Jesse for swimming in the drainage ditch on the farm.. maybe that last one wasn’t so fond but most of the rest are. I am grateful for Jay being a good friend of our family over the years, and in particular the kindness and renewed friendship he extended to my dad when Mike was going through tough times. Please let me know when you are able to schedule a celebration of his life. Be well.
Maureen and family,
So sorry to learn of Jay’s passing. I thought the obituary was lovely and a tribute to his life.
Hope you are all well and can support each other as you grieve.
sincerely,
Mary Dresch