Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
Steven Joel “Steve” Zorza passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, Nov. 21, 2025. Steve was born on Jan. 7, 1949, in Marquette, Michigan. He was the second of six children born to Ken and Angie Zorza. The family moved from Michigan to Hood River, Oregon, when Steve was 7. He grew up among his siblings: older brother Ron and younger siblings Larry, Dubber, Pamela, and Scott.
Steve graduated from Hood River High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in March of 1968. He served in the Vietnam War and concluded his service at NSD Yokosuka, Japan, where he met Kazuko, whom he later married. After his honorable discharge in August of 1972, Steve and Kazuko returned to Hood River and made it their home. They raised two children, Jeff and Michelle.
Steve had a deep love for the outdoors and spent many days hunting and fishing with family and friends.
Steve is survived by his children, Jeff Zorza and Michelle (Joe) Cleary; his grandchildren, Owen Cleary, Jadyn Howard-Zorza, Wyatt Cleary, Finn Cleary, and Violet Cleary; and his brothers, Larry Zorza and Dubber Zorza. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Angie Zorza, and his siblings Ron Zorza, Scott Zorza, and Pamela Zorza.
An informal gathering will be held at the Elks Lodge in downtown Hood River on Dec. 6 from 4-6 p.m., where friends and family who wish to share memories of Steve are welcome to attend.
Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson’s Tribute Center, 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
Columbia Gorge News, Dec. 3, 2025
To plant a tree in memory of Steven Zorza as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
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