In memory of

Zachary Zinsmeister

Jun 2, 1977
Feb 11, 2017

Obituary

Zachary (Zach) was born in Marshfield, WI on June 2, 1977.  He spent his first 7 years there, before moving with his family to Vancouver, WA where he graduated from Mt. View High School in 1995.  He spent 4 years in the Army deploying to Bosnia.  His post-secondary education was interrupted by the events of 9/11.  Serving in the Illinois National Guard at the time, he was sent to Germany.  Upon his return to Illinois, he worked in the service industry and began a career at Home Depot.  He transferred to the Salem Home Depot Distribution Center in 2011 where he achieved a supervisory position.

Zach's positive impact on others was readily apparent to anyone who got to know him.  His humor, intelligence, and generosity were evident to all.  Zach was physically tough, but privately was a tender and sensitive soul.  His eclectic interests ran the gamut from bonsai to the natural world, from astronomy to sports.

Zach's passion for the Chicago Cubs was legendary.  Dip the pennants at Wrigley Field for a minute in Zach's honor because the Cubbies have lost one of their biggest fans and a true master of Cubs history and statistics. 

Zach's passing on February 11, 2017 will leave a void in the lives of many.  We will never understand why friends and family were unable to help him, but must accept his decision to end his pain and despair.

Survivors include his parents, Steve and Charlene of Scappoose, OR; brothers Nick (Carol) and niece, Anya of Paris, France; Jared (Susan) of Vancouver, WA.  Best friend, who was like a brother, Scott (Kylie) Golden of Columbia, MD.  Fiancee, Kassandra Freeman and her children of Stayton, OR.

Consider donations to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  (afsp.org)

May you find peace dear Zachary.

Messages of Sympathy

  1. Lynn Lauderdale-Gates says:

    I only knew Zach through stories from his brother, but I'm so very sorry to hear this. I hope time softens the pain of your loss and in each other you find strength.

  2. S. Kanouse says:

    Sorry to hear about your passing. May you be free from what haunted or tormented you. I remember your laugh and smile the most. Rest in peace.

  3. Heff says:

    Zach, you were one of the coolest bossman I ever had, I still tell some of the jokes I learned from you to others. R.I.P. Dad.

  4. Pang Kee family says:

    We grew up with Zach ..we went to middle school and High School together..loved his humor and he was a great friend..he never had anything negative to say about anyone.it had a good heart ...he will be missed however forever remembered and never forgotten..

  5. Jeff Durant says:

    My first supervisor at the Home Depot back 4 years ago. Zach was more like a close friend to myself and many others. I remember he would always be joking around and making me laugh and every Friday you wouldn't catch him without his Cubs shirt and hat on. It's heartbreaking to think about this tragedy but I'll always remember the good memories we shared. R.I.P

  6. Roman Rico says:

    Zach was an awesome guy and a better friend. I'm going to miss him. One day we will ALL meet up. Til then R.I.P buddy.

  7. Jeff K. Pangkee says:

    I'm torn my brother never new until now. I've known Zach since we were little n went to karate together and school. I have no idea what happen but I'm sorry I wasn't there for you. You will always be my friend my brother. Your brother Jeff K. Pangkee. Aloha Oe til we meet again.

  8. Kathy Hanson says:

    You always had a hug ready, and the best Christmas gifts! Kindness and great humor.... being around you and Jared was so much fun! A special place in my heart, all of our hearts, love and miss you xo

  9. Chureyl says:

    Rip slacker Zach :)you were the best supervisor 🙂

  10. Johnson Funeral Home Staff says:

    Thank you for trusting Johnson Funeral Home. Losing Zach must be so hard. We are praying that you'll find peace and comfort .

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