Obituary of Zenas Joe Cantrell

Zenas "Joe" Cantrell, 69 years old, of Seattle, WA, passed away February 7, 2024 surrounded by loved ones. Joe was born January 18, 1955 to Ray Cantrell and Marie Cantrell (Simpson) in Lebanon, OR. Joe grew up in the neighboring town of Sweet Home, OR with his five siblings.

Joe met his wife, Barbara Jobe, while they were both attending Sweet Home High School. Joe and Barb were married in 1973, and during the 17 years that they were married they had three children, Kathy Jo White, Michelle Renae Cantrell, and Jason Ray Cantrell.

Joe went into the Navy in 1973, and he received an honorable discharge in 1974. Joe then went on to work at various positions until the early 80's when he went to work for Whitestone Logging in Southeast Alaska, moving his family to the logging camp shortly after. After several years logging, Joe went on to work in the hospitality and tourism industry. Joe spent more than 30 years working in the hospitality and tourism industry, even after retiring. It was a career he had found his passion and loved what he did each day.

Although Joe retired just a couple years ago, he continued to work within the hospitality and tourism industry part-time. Since retiring, Joe traveled more to spend time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and continue to explore the city he loved, Seattle, WA, which had been his home for the last 17 years.

Joe is survived by his children, Kathy White of Williston, ND, Michelle Cantrell of Watford City, ND, and Jason Cantrell of Madras, OR, his siblings, Phyllis Wilson of Oregon City, OR, Samantha Swan of Santa Maria, CA, Keith Cantrell of Beaverton,, OR, Debbie Wilson of Tulsa, OK and David Gann of Adair, OK,, 9 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded by his father, Ray Cantrell, his step-mother, Cora Cantrell (Tyler), his mother Marie Gann (Simpson), and his older brother, Royce Cantrell.

There will be a Celebration of Life held at Chelan Cafe/ Ebb Tide Bar, on February 15, 2024 @ 2pm.

There will also be a Memorial Service In Sweet Home, OR in June, 2024 where he will be laid to rest with his loved ones.