James Preston, Sr.

James R. Preston, Sr.

91, of Oakland, passed away Friday, March 23, 2018 at Garrett Regional Medical Center.

Born on November 24, 1926 to Clarence W. Preston and Anna Ethel (Murphy) Preston. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Rev. T. William “Bill” Preston and wife Betty, Oscar L. Preston and wife Betty, Owen Preston and wife Helen, John “Hack” Preston and wife Ruth and brother-in-law, James Wiebrecht.

Mr. Preston was a WWII Veteran serving in the Army Paratroopers. He was a retired DNR officer after 30 ½ years of service from Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Jim enjoyed walking every day and walked the C&O Canal the entire length in 2 weeks. He was a kindhearted soul who never met a stranger.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years Betty (Lindeman) Preston; children, James R. Preston, Jr. and wife Liane, Oakland and Daniel A. Preston, Stafford, Va; three grandchildren, James R. Preston III and wife Vicky, Laura E. Tasker and husband Mark and Timothy M. Preston and wife Shanna; a sister, Eleanor Wiebrecht; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will be received at Durst Funeral Home, 57 Frost Ave., Frostburg, MD on Tuesday, March 27, 2018 from 4 to 7 pm.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at 1:00 pm with Chris Skidmore officiating. Following the funeral service James will be cremated in accordance with his wishes.

Inurnment will be in Finzel Cemetery.