Joel Curtis Zumstein

Joel Curtis Zumstein, 54, died unexpectedly on May 9, 2016 surrounded by his family.

Joel will be remembered for his dedication to his family, loving heart, welcoming arms, and selfless demeanor.

Joel was born to Joe and Cheril Zumstein on February 7, 1962, in Vancouver, WA. He was raised on the family farm and enjoyed riding motorcycles, spending time with his siblings and driving his Porsche 911. Joel graduated from Woodland High School in 1980. Following high school Joel attended Clark College in Vancouver, WA before transferring to Washington State University in Pullman, WA. He graduated from WSU in 1985 with a B.A. in Social Sciences.

After graduation Joel returned to the family farm. He helped Joe with the farm work, logging and running Woodland Logging Supply. In the late 1980s Joel purchased the supply store from Joe. He enjoyed working on chainsaws and motorcycles but most dear to him was forming life-long relationships with his customers. In 1989, Joel followed in his father’s footsteps and opened Buck Mountain Timber. He loved being in the woods and loved sharing this endeavor with his dad.

Joel married Nanci VanAtta on September 13, 1986 and they quickly started a family. They were together 20 years before divorcing. Joel devoted the majority of his time and energy to his children. However, he also enjoyed skiing in Canada with his friends, rooting on the WSU Cougars football team every Saturday, and welcoming anyone and everyone into his home and family. Joel was a dedicated WSU supporter and made monthly donations to help college students. Later he met the love of his life Tiffani and embraced her children, Taylor Ann Richards and Parker Owen and made them part of his family. Joel’s most beloved pastime though was spending time with his precious grandchildren, MaeLee, Gracie, Aubree and Eli.

Joel is survived by his mother, Cheril Zumstein; Tiffani, his companion, with whom he shared the last 7 years; his adored children, Jerrad & Katie Nichols; Janae & Brian Gates; Jalise Zumstein & Marc Hoekstra; Jeff Zumstein; his siblings, Darryl Zumstein, Brent (& Sharon) Zumstein, Jolynn (& Rick) Klaus and his many nieces and nephews whom he loved unconditionally. Joel was proceeded in death by his best friend and father, Joseph “Joe” John Zumstein, Jr.

A memorial service will be held in honor of Joel on Saturday May 21st at 11am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Ridgefield Chapel, located at 21720 NE 29th Ave in Ridgefield, WA.