Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes

Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

For Immediate Help Call
Miles City: 406-232-4457 — Forsyth: 406-346-2311

In Memory Of

Haiden Oakland, age 19, of Miles City.

May 27, 2004 – May 14, 2024


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Haiden Paul Oakland “H” “Oak Tree” passed away in the afternoon of May 14, 2024 doing what he loved. Haiden was born in Miles City, Montana on May 27th, 2004. He was the second child, and only son of Paul and Marie Oakland.

At an early age, Haiden had an innate curiosity for engines or anything to get his hands dirty. Some would say he was a certified tinkerer, and YouTube mechanic. Haiden threw himself into all kinds of projects, just to keep himself busy or to help others.

Haiden was involved in a variety of activities such as football, BMX, baseball, track and field, soccer, skiing, basketball, wrestling, and boy scouts. He also had an adventurous side including his love for exploration that extended beyond these interests. Aside from flying, his adventures included dirt biking, water sports, snowmobiling and hunting.

Haiden’s journey was marked by many meaningful encounters and true friendships, particularly on the Yellowstone River and in the Bighorn Mountains. He was always willing to go the extra mile, not only for his goals, but also for the people he loved. His boundless work ethic shone through at Ingraham Environmental, Ace Hardware, Hirsch Farms, Jack’s Body Shop, and the Frank Wiley Field Airport. He even earned a welding certification, showcasing his dedication to craftsmanship.

Pat Lifto opened Haiden’s eyes to a passion that would feed his soul; aviation. Haiden’s family, and friends quickly noticed the light in his eyes that shined whenever aviation came into the conversation. His obsession became anything and everything related to flying.

In the fall of 2021, Haiden began his pursuit of his private pilot’s license. Constantly working towards his goal of becoming a pilot, even before and after a full day of high school classes. Haiden’s dedication began to pay off when he flew solo into the sunset, for the first time, on March 28, 2022. After that, he began chasing sunrises and sunsets daily. Then, on August 1st, 2022, Haiden’s pursuit of excellence paid off when he became a pilot, at the age of 18. But, that wasn’t enough for Haiden, with insistent determination he also became certified in instrument, complex, high performance, commercial, and multi engines before he turned 20.

All who knew Haiden will remember him for his intelligence, wit, humor, blue eyes and beautiful smile. A man of few words, but always direct and unfiltered, leaving a lasting impact on those around him. Haiden left us too early, but in the almost 20 years he was here, he lived an amazingly full life and he definitely knew how to “send it”. We will always carry Haiden’s memory in our hearts.

Haiden was preceded in death by his grandfather’s Thorvald Bang and Paul Oakland Sr. He will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Paul and Marie, his sister Kyra, and soulmate Emily Toennis. He will also be greatly missed by his grandmothers, Lois Bang, Judy Oakland. Aunts and Uncles, Jen and Jason Hirsch, Laurie and Todd Grevious, Ruth and Lance Farmer and Uncle Allen Bang. Cousins: Cole Hirsch, Kaitlyn Dighans. Sterling Farmer, Skylar Farmer, Sariah Farmer, Denver Grevious, Beth Grevious.

Special thanks to everyone near and far that has shown support to the Oakland family during this tragedy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Miles City Flying Club for the Haiden Oakland Flying Scholarship to award local pilots. Miles City Flying Club, P.O. Box 1621, Miles City, MT 59301.

Service Schedule

Family to Receive Friends

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Monday May 20, 2024

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, Montana 59301

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Funeral Service

2:00 p.m.

Tuesday May 21, 2024

Miles City Airport - Hangar 10

77 Frank Wiley Field

Miles City, Montana 59301

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View Memorial Folder

Service Schedule

Family to Receive Friends

4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Monday May 20, 2024

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home

1717 Main Street

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Funeral Service

2:00 p.m.

Tuesday May 21, 2024

Miles City Airport - Hangar 10

77 Frank Wiley Field

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

View Memorial Folder

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  1. Paul, Marie and Kyra, I have no words that will ease this pain! I pray, with time, your memories will mend your broken hearts!

  2. Paul, Marie& Kyra, we are deeply saddened by the news. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this time. May memories give you strength and comfort.

  3. We are shocked and so saddened by this news. I have fond memories of the boys all playing together when they were little. My favorite memory of Haiden is when he nailed 2 boards together (in the shape of an L for “loser”) and gave them to Joel after Joel’s NFL team lost to Haiden’s. He had an amazing smile and sense of humor. We are so very sorry. Julie, Hannah, Wesley, Joel and Ruthie.

  4. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you grieve the loss of Haiden. We pray that you will find peace and healing with time and all the wonderful memories of such a wonderful young man. May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
    Heidi, Currey, Caleb, and Cailyn

  5. You don’t know me but I knew your son by the sound of his plane. He has inspired me and many others close by to perervere. He was so dedicated and hard work and that inspiration has resulted in some remarkable transformations in the lives of so many that could not or wouldn’t ever have reason to come forward. I am so sorry for your loss. He was so much to so many silently. No words can express the loss. Praying for you all.

  6. Marie, Paul, Kyra and family,
    We do not have words to fully express just how sorry we are to hear about the loss of Haiden. He was an amazing young man. So many memories of “the boys”; the ziplines, nerf wars and just being crazy boys. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
    Tanya, Greg, BreAnn and Todd

  7. To all who love Haiden,
    I can only imagine the loss you are all feeling. My love and prayers are with you. May you be blessed with memories to cherish and keep his memory close to your heart always.

    Denise and Jay Harvey

  8. To Marie, Paul and all of Haiden’s family:
    My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of grief and loss. I cannot even imagine your pain and sadness. Words are never adequate at a time like this. Please hold the love and goodness that was Haiden in your hearts and draw strength from it!

  9. Much love to all of you during this heartbreaking time. We are holding you in our thoughts and prayers. Please reach out if you need anything.
    Glo, Missy, and Wyatt

  10. Marie, Paul and Kyra,
    I didn’t know Haiden very well but what I did know is he was a kind young man. I know both my sons, Clancy and Caleb, truly enjoyed being around him and Caleb will forever cherish his plane ride with Haiden last summer. I pray during this time that your family and friends wrap their arms around you and surround you with love. Rest in Peace Haiden.

  11. The sorrow we feel over the loss of Haiden is hard to put into words. He was such a gift to us as a student and as a friend. Haiden was always right there when a new student was going to solo or take a check ride… giving support & encouragement.
    We’ll never forget the day he texted us that he was going to fly by the house (which he loved to do) but this time, in his very own plane. As we stood out on our driveway as he flew over, we commented, “can you just imagine the smile on that kid’s face right now?!” That moment will stick with us a long time. We had so much fun when he went to the Montana Aviation Conference with us this spring, Haiden in his element, talking planes & flying… ALL DAY! Didn’t know at the time how precious that time would become in our memories. Haiden was loved & will be dearly missed by his flying family. Our hearts & prayers go out to you, Paul, Marie & Kyra and all who loved him.

  12. Sending our thoughts and prayers to all of you. We were so saddened to hear about the loss of Haiden.

  13. I am so very sorry for your loss. There are no words for the loss of a child.

  14. Marie, Paul, Kyra , My heart hurts for yous. The loss of your Son, brother. Is so sad and horrible. Sending prayers and hugs to you all .

  15. Marie,Paul and Kyra keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Hold the memories close and know that so many people are here for you. Haiden was such a nice young man and I know he will be sooo missed! 🩷😢

  16. Oh, how will never forget all our many boyscout adventures! That blonde hair, and smile! The years wrestling and years of friendship with Gabe. You will forever be missed.
    Marie, Paul, and family our prayers are with you all and this difficult time. Prayers for comfort and strength to endure this eternal pain.
    Danette, Mike, Gabe, and Walker family

  18. I can remember giving Haiden his first airplane ride, his face lit up like you wouldn’t believe I told him to fly the plane and he did well and he just loved it. We are truly going to miss him. He was a real asset to us at the airport. We hated to see him leave. He will be remembered. I’m not sure words can say how we all feel.
    Pat lifto

  19. Paul,Marie and Kyra. We are so very sorry for your loss. Our hearts ache for you. You all are in our thoughts. Hold on to your precious memories.

  20. Paul and Marie. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talented boy with us for two summers. He became a part of the family. He could and would do anything ask of him from building to welding to running equipment at 14 and 15. And always having time for our Grandson. We loved your son. Bruce and Cindy Ingraham.

  21. Paul and Marie I’m so sorry for your loss are prayers are with you

  22. Dear Oakland family, Jim and I am so grief stricken over the loss of your dear Haiden. There aren’t words strong enough to cover your loss. Giant hugs to you all.

  23. I am so sorry for your loss. Haiden was a great kid! and seemed so full of life. My heart goes out for the family.

  24. Paul, Marie, Kyra and family, There are no words to express my sorrow with the loss of Haiden, what a great young man, Loved by so many. Cherish the memories.

  25. We’re sending our love and prayers at this very difficult time. Heartfelt condolences to you all.
    Our thoughts are with you always.

  26. Marie I’m so sorry for you and your family’s loss. I can’t imagine what you all are going through during this time. Remember all the good times and may God ease your pain. Prayer and hugs for you all.

  27. I work with Laurie and am so very sorry to hear this news. Prayers for your family!

  28. Paul, Marie, and Kyra
    This breaks my heart. Haiden was such a great guy in all ways. Kind, encouraging, helpful, ready for anything. I have so many fond memories of baseball and wrestling with Haiden and Jackson together. I pray for comfort and peace as you grieve this tragic loss.
    Stacie Miller and the boys

  29. Oh I am so sorry to see this! Marie my heart just breaks for you and your family!! Hugs to you all in this difficult time!!

  30. Oh I am so sorry to hear this!! Marie hugs to you and your family in this difficult time!

  31. Marie, Paul and Kyra I’m so unbelievably sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you. You have been in my thoughts and prayers everyday. I love you Marie. Big hugs 🫂

  32. Paul and Family, we are so sorry to hear about the loss of your son. Please know we are thinking of you and your family during this difficult time and the days ahead. All of us at, Circle R Steel.

  33. Paul, Marie and Kyra, we are so sending love and prayers with the loss of Haiden. He was an amazing and kind young man and loved by so many! Heartfelt condolences and hugs sent to all of you!
    Danielle, Steve, Steven, Anthony and Matt Ray

  34. Our deepest sympathy for the loss of a wonderful young man. Haiden was so kind to many.

  36. Paul, Marie, Kyra my thoughts and prayers are with you all. I was so sorry to hear this about your son and brother. Cherish all the memories and keep them close to you all . May god be with you all and give you the strength to get through this and all the day’s ahead . Big hugs Patty Kountz

  37. Paul Maria ,Kyra So sorry for your loss hold onto the memories and he will live on in your hearts forever you will be in our thoughts and prayers

  38. Paul, Marie & Kyra,
    I am so sorry to hear about Haiden, he was taken way too soon. I hope you can find comfort in the thought of him watching over you. My thoughts are with you.

  39. Marie and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs I’m thinking of all of you. Love, Corinne and family

  40. Paul, Marie and Kyra – my deepest sympathy in your tragic loss – may all your good memories help to ease your sorrow – God Bless all.

  41. I have no words to express how badly I feel about this terrible loss. May you find comfort and strength in the fact that you will someday see him again. God bless and comfort you all.

  42. Hayden was always there with a smile and a hand to help, not sure how many dolly bars they ate at youth group or games of sardines! We will forever miss him! Love you all

  43. My heart and prayers go out to the Oaklands and those who knew and loved Hayden. I am so sorry for your loss.

  44. Paul, Marie, Kyra I am very sad to hear this. Hayden had smile that would light up a room. Always had a joke to crack. Gone way way to soon. My sincere condolences.

  45. Paul, Marie, Kyra, and family,
    I am so saddened by the loss of Haiden. Thinking of all of you.

  46. My condolences to the Oakland family, Paul, Marie and Kyrra! So sorry to sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your whole family!

  47. Our condolences to the family, no words can take the pain of losing so I loved so dearly. Praying for everyone.

  48. Paul and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

  49. I have no words that can or could express my thoughts for you all. Know you are loved. May God give you peace in time.

  51. Paul, Marie, & Kyra,
    My heart is just broken for all of you. And as much as I wish I could help your hurting hearts, I know there are no words right now that will bring comfort. I pray that time will eventually ease the pain and allow sweet memories to bring you comfort. Please know you are in my and JR’s thoughts and prayers.
    JR and Carol Bean

  52. We were friends of Dave and did not know Hayden, but our thoughts and prayers and hugs are with his family and friends during this tragic time he had to of been an awesome kid.

  53. I did not know the young man. But it sounds like he was an amazing individual. Two bad life is like that. My God be with him and family.

  54. Paul and Family,
    We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you strength in the days ahead and help to heal your hearts.

  55. Paul, Marie, Kyra & extended family,
    We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts & prayers. May your fond memories bring you peace in your times of grief.

  56. Marie, Paul and Kyra,
    Sending my deepest sympathies during this tragic time. Marie I think he was starting kindergarten when we started working together. While I didn’t really know him, I have heard stories of him for years. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. It sounds like you raised a wonderful young man who touched many lives in his short time.

  57. Paul, Marie and Kyra:
    I cannot put into words the feeling I got when i just now today received the news of Haidens passing.
    Just know that my deepest sympathy goes out to the 3 of you and the rest of your family at this time.
    I am so sorry
    Love you 3
    Rick

  58. To All of Haiden’s Family
    I am so very sorry for the loss of your Haiden. He always had a smile on his face, great sense of humor and baby blue eyes. He touched so so many who truly loved him and he was an awesome friend to all with a heart of gold. Always remember “When A Loved One Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes A Treasure”. He will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. Treasure your memories to help thru difficult days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  59. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. There is nothing worse than looking a child

  60. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Oakland family. So sorry for your loss.

  61. Paul, Marie, Kyra, and family,
    We were deeply saddened to hear about the tragic loss of Haiden. Please accept our deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time. No words can fully console the immense sorrow you all must feel but may the love and support of friends and family provide some comfort as you navigate through this dark time.
    With deepest sympathy,
    Jake and Dannon (Olson) Gibby

  63. Paul, Marie, Kyra, and Family Our deepest condolences on your loss of Haiden. Your are all in our thoughts and prayers.

  64. Our family would like to again express our broken heart feeling For your family and friends. We lost one of our sons and a young age also so we know how it feels . We never had the pleasure of knowing Haiden but Dave was our friend and he was so proud of Haiden and he had a spray plane for Haiden to use and bought all the chemicals for him to use in his new business, venture. Dave had special plans for the future of this young man. Hugs. Prayers are with all of you.

  65. I spent some time trying to locate pictures of the boys when they were little. I still think of them that way, full of energy, exploring the neighborhood, building and creating. Haiden was always spearheading some project, usually involving something mechanical, he even fixed our toilet once. What a treasure he was and my heart breaks for you.

  66. We are so sorry for the loss of Haiden. Our love and prayers are with all of you.

    Joe and Carrie Ugrin

  68. Paul, Marie and family, I was shocked when I heard the news about Haiden. I cannot imagine the grief you are feeling. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. 🙏🙏

    Kim, Troy, Paden and Jack Combs

  69. Paul, Marie and Kyra,
    What a heartbreaking loss to you and all those who got to know and spend time with Haiden. He was such a great person and I loved being part of his life in 5th and 6th grade basketball. You are in my prayers during this difficult time.

  70. Oakland family I am so so saddened by your loss. You are all in my thoughts and I hope that you find peace in wonderful memories. Sending my love.

  71. Oaklands Family, we were so sorry to hear of the passing of Hayden. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Hugs and prayers.

  72. Paulie, Marie, and Kyra, I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved son Haiden. I didn’t know your son, however, I’m profoundly saddened by his loss. I know words can’t bring any comfort at this time but I pray that with time his memory will bring that to you. May he always watch over you and inspire you to go on until you meet again. He is flying with eagles. God Bless His soul.

  75. Our hearts are broken to hear of Haiden’s passing. We met Haiden on a flight through Miles City, where he greeted us with such a warm kindness. It made us feel like we had known him for years. He talked about his ambitions of becoming an ag pilot, and told us stories of morning and evening flights flying down the river in his Champ. He talked about all of the gravel bars around the area that he landed at. Haiden had such a clear love and passion for aviation, and was so determined to reach his goals. We were looking forward  to meeting back up with him this spring for some Champ flying at his favorite spots. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and his aviation community at the Miles City Airport.

  76. Thoughts and Prayer’s to Paul, Marie and Kyra! So Very Sorry for your loss!

  77. We knew Haiden only through brief encounters at Kyra’s college volleyball games. In our brief conversations his love of flying became immediately evident. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  78. I am so saddened by this news. I did my student teaching in Haiden’s fourth grade class. While I only spent four months with him, I remember him as a very kind, respectful, and hard working student. It is amazing to read about all he has accomplished in the last ten years. I am grateful to have taught him for a short while. I will keep you all in my prayers.

  79. Bob was familiar with his positive attitude towards a future goal in life. He became acquainted with him this past summer while employed at Wiley Airport. Bob commented on his focus on a career was important. He was a pleasure to work and visit with. I remember him while subbing in CCDS system. Always so mannered and sound.

  80. I can’t begin to fathom the sorrow the family of Haiden is experiencing. My sincerest condolences go out to you as you try to wrap you brains and hearts around this heartbreaking devastation. My you be sustained and comforted by the memories. Tears are the price we pay for love, so let the tears flow freely.

  81. So saddened by your great loss! May God continue to comfort and hold you close until you meet again in heaven. Psalm 119:50 “This is my comfort in my suffering: that your saying gives me life.” 1Corinthians 2:9 “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, & what no human mind has conceived- the things God has prepared for those who love him.” John 14:2 ” My Father’s house has many rooms… I am going there to prepare a place for you.”

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