Obituary: Rex Simantel

Published 12:15 am Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Astoria

Sept. 27, 1946 — Aug. 31, 2024

Rex Simantel, born Sept. 27, 1946, died at home in Astoria on Aug. 31.

Rex was the nicest guy you could meet, with a gruff exterior with a soft-gooey center (but don’t tell him I said that). Those who knew him describe him as hardworking, kindhearted and generous; a talented craftsman who could fix anything; a cook; a loyal friend, quick with a joke; and a loving uncle, brother and husband, who strove to do the best he could in all aspects of his life.

“Raised by wolves,” Rex said, he grew up “always getting into trouble” on a farm in Newberg. He was operating farm equipment at 8 years old, and driving the wheat truck to town by the time he was 13.

His family called him Butch, and he often said that he didn’t even know his name was “Rex” until he went to first grade, and the teacher was doing roll call, asking if “Rex Simantel” was here. He perked up and was looking around to see who he was related to — there was some to-do figuring it all out.

Rex attended the Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls, and later served four years with close friends in the Newberg National Guard.

Rex worked on the water; on a tow boat at Shepard Towing with his cousin, Sweeny, and commercial fishing in Oregon, Washington state and Alaska for many years. His favorite boat was the Star King.

Rex had several dogs throughout his life, but Maggie, and then Heidi, were his constant companions.

Rex loved hunting, exploring the woods, scouting, sport fishing, woodworking, carving, reloading, cooking, watching the Seahawks, Mariners and any Oregon team, and the occasional shot of whiskey with friends.

Rex was known for his listening ear, as he always said he didn’t believe in talking to hear his head rattle.

On Feb. 26, 2000, Rex married his forever love, Paula Gjovik, after a long courtship.

She survives. They made many memories together, and always had room at the dinner table for a guest.

Rex is survived by his siblings, Lee (Louise) and Gary, in-laws, Nancy (Terry) Ager and Martha (Paul) Frederickson, and all their children, and a nephew, Lars Gjovik. Rex took great joy in daily conversations he shared with Larry Evanow, and visits with numerous friends and family.

Special thanks to beloved nephew Rob Simantel for his continuous love and support.

A celebration of life will be held on his birthday, Friday, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Fort George Lovell Taproom/Showroom, 426 14th St.