On Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, Jose "Joe" Carlos Gamez, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away at the age of 69.

Joe was born on Oct. 14, 1951 in Crystal City, Texas, to Minerva and Isaac Gamez. He married Susanna Elana Sapp on Nov. 9, 1991.

He was a loving father to Lisa Wright of Washington; Joe Gamez of Italy; Hope Gamez of Washington; Melissa Triplett of Oregon; and their respective spouses. Joe's 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren brought immeasurable joy into his life.

Joe was known for his thoughtful demeanor, sense of humor, infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit. In 1970, he started his career as a Telecommunications Technician and retired in 2019. He always worked and played hard. In addition to being devoted to his family, Joe was a fervent skier, passionate pool player an ardent Seahawks fan who also loved the outdoors. At the time of his passing Joe resided on Orcas Island in Washington, a place he loved to be.

Joe was preceded in death by his father Isaac. He is survived by his mother Minerva; his siblings Isaac Gamez Jr. of Washington; Diana Leos, George Gamez and Anedelia "Nellie" Vasquez of Oregon; and Manuel Gamez of Nebraska; his wife; his children; his grandchildren; his great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, a service celebrating Joe's life will be delayed until July 2021, if such a gathering can be safely held at that time. The public will be notified of Joe's celebration of life as soon as the information can be confirmed.