Joel Zacarias, age 49, passed away at the University of Washington Medical Center surrounded by his children and loving family to comfort him to rest in peace.

Joel was born on July 24, 1976, in Ontario, to Mike and Dorene Zacarias. Joel was the youngest of eleven siblings.

He lived the majority of his growing up years in the small town of Vale. He attended grade school and Vale High School. He was very active in school sports, playing baseball and football.

Joel later moved to Warm Springs, where he met his significant other and started his family. He had three children: Joel, Kamelia, and Marrika Zacarias.

Joel and his family later moved to Bend where he became a single father and supporter of his children. While living in Bend, Joel enjoyed training his two daughters in boxing and attended many boxing matches throughout Oregon.

Joel’s passion for mechanics allowed him to pass on his knowledge to his son, daughters, nieces and nephews. He even took the time to help anyone in need to get their vehicles working.

In 2018, Joel and his children moved back to Burns to help care for his mother. He was employed at Shell gas station in Hines. Due to his health condition, he had to leave his position. He enjoyed talking to community members and travelers, listening to their adventures. He always had a story to tell on who he met that day, including performers and pro rodeo riders. He also really enjoyed travelers’ dogs, which always brought a smile to his face. He left behind his dog, Angel, who still sits looking out the window for his return.

Joel is an enrolled member of the Burns Paiute Tribe. He is preceded in death by his father, Mike Zacarias; and three brothers: Jessie, Mike Jr., and Alroy Zacarias.

Joel is survived by his three children: Joel, Kamelia, and Marrika Zacarias; his mother, Dorene Zacarias; three brothers, four sisters, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, at the Burns Paiute Gathering Center, 40 Pasigo Street, in Burns. Burial will follow at the Old Camp Cemetery off of Monroe Street.