Jeffrey Lee Zeits

Longtime Estacada resident, Jeffrey Zeits, died Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at his home with this family by his side.  

A celebration of his life, with military honors, will be held 11:00 AM, Friday, February 23, 2024 at Estacada Funeral Chapel.

Jeffrey Lee Zeits was born June 13, 1958 in Portland, Oregon to Jack and Geneva (Pendergrass) Zeits.  He was raised in Estacada where he graduated from high school.  He married Ivy Cain in Utah on December 23, 1977.  Jeff then entered into the US Navy in 1977 where he was in Operation Eagle Claw which was a hostage rescue mission in Iran and was a Hull Tech on the USS San Bernardino LST 1189. He later was honorably discharged in 1981.   After his time serving our country, he moved back to Estacada where he worked as a logger.  In 1999, he moved to Iowa, owned and operated Berts Pub and Grub. For most of his working career he was in construction.  In 2011, Jeff moved back to Estacada to be near his grandson.

Jeff was an avid motorcycle enthusiast and owned several Harleys. He courageously managed many health issues, loved working with his hands, never backed away from a challenge and had a great sincere laugh.

Survivors include his daughter, Karmen (Andrew) Snider; grandson, Michael Snider; brothers, Russell and Charlie Zeits; sister, Barbara Baker and several nieces and nephews.