Onesimo ‘Joe’ Contreraz Zarate

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(Oct. 15, 1947 - June 22, 2016)

Onesimo “Joe” Contreraz Zarate died on June 22, 2016, in Byron surrounded by his family. He was born on Oct. 15, 1947, in La Grulla, Texas, to Heriberto Contreraz and Hortencia Zarate. He was raised by his grandmother, Catarina Zarate and Lupe and Tola Rameriz. He married the love of his life, Joyce Ann Watts in 1970.  

He joined the National Guard in 1976 and retired 21 1/2 years later. He also worked for Lovell Brick & Tile, American Colloid, Frost Construction and Western Sugar.  

Joe was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Joe celebrated his birthday each year hunting on opening day. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, and watching his Pittsburgh Steelers play. He was happiest spending time with his family.  

He is survived by his wife Joyce Zarate; three sons Jesse Zarate of Wakita, Oklahoma, David (Amanda) Zarate of Gillette, Ivan Zarate of Powell; daughter Christina Zarate of Casper; mother-in-law Marian Esterholt of Casper; daughters-in-law Sandy Zarate of Lovell and Dawn Kasinger of Powell; nephew John (Debbie) Ramirez of Byron; 13 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and 21 siblings. He was preceded in death by his father, one granddaughter and three siblings.  

Services were held at Haskell’s Funeral Home on Friday, June 24.

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