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BORN
1952
DIED
2020
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Joseph Zustak Obituary
Joseph Zustak born in the military hospital Kitatamagun in Tokyo, JAPAN, December 18, 1952 to parents, Kazuko Tsukahara (Betty) and John K. Zustak. Joe unexpectedly passed away at his home in Bella Vista on April 18, 2020, due to a sudden heart attack.
Joe served in the Army and as a second lieutenant in the 1113th Transportation Company in the California Army National Guard. During that time he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal. After his stint in the National Guard Joe attended and graduated from the University of California at Davis earning his degree in Fish Biology. This led to a long and rewarding career in the U. S. Forest Service where he was employed as a fish biologist for 33 years, making many lifelong friends. His job included working with the kids at Bella Vista School, which he enjoyed immensely. Driving for the USFS Fire Cache was something Joe looked forward to every year. Joe taught taxidermy classes at Shasta Junior College and was quite talented, which is attested to by his many beautiful specimens. Betty and Joe had some wonderful years together with the Black Powder Club too, he was a true opponent in the shooting competition. Joe was fun loving, a good sport, and game for anything. He loved duck hunting, saying "The Marsh was like a church." He also loved fishing, working on his place, cooking, traveling, his dogs and anything outdoors.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Zustak and step-children Lou, Lori, and Athena, granddaughters Jessie Ann and Reina, brothers Mike and his wife Isabel, Fred and wife Christine, George Zustak, and many numerous nieces and nephews. He will be missed by many.
Due to the COVID19 pandemic there will be no memorial service. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Zustak
Sponsored by Allen & Dahl Funeral Chapel - Redding Redding.
6 Entries
Suzy Bond
May 29, 2020
Dear Betty,
I am still in shock and am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. There are no words to ease your pain. I will always remember Joe when I wear my fish shirts that we made at the Shasta Fair at the Fish Booth. Joe was always so happy helping the kids and adults alike.
RIP Joe, I know you have a few good dogs up there running with you.
Your friends,
Suzy & Garry
Cari Kunde
May 20, 2020
I am deeply saddened to hear about Joe's passing. He was such a kind-hearted, wonderful man. We worked together at Shasta College. His loss will be deeply felt by those who knew and loved him. I wish his family and loved ones peace during this difficult time and hope his memories bring them comfort.
Tim Mort
May 17, 2020
"The hunter is home from the hills..."
Joe was my brother-in-law, but more importantly he was the best friend and hunting partner a man could ask for. We hunted waterfowl, upland birds, elk, and deer together for many enjoyable years, and smoked fine cigars in our camps and duck blinds. I never once saw him get mad at anyone or anything. My fall season will never be the same without him. God speed Joe, you will be sorely missed.
Natasha Rose
May 17, 2020
I really enjoyed learning taxidermy from him at the college, he took time to make sure every student was on the right track and was very encouraging to all of us. He'll be missed by all of us who had the fortune of learning from him.
May 15, 2020
Joe was quite a guy, I also worked for the USFS and probably met joe in the 80's when I was transferred back to the Shasta-Trinity. Enjoyed knowing him. Too darn young to be gone!
Sandy
May 13, 2020
Joe will be missed by so many. We are so sorry for your loss Betty. Our prayers go out to you and your family.
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