Obituary: Steven Joel “Steve” Zorza, 77, Hood River
Steven Joel “Steve” Zorza passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 21, 2025.
Steve was born on January 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 seven. 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.
Military Honors for Steve are planned for 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at Mt. View Memorial Cemetery (1235 Tucker Road, Hood River, Oregon 97031).
Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
