Zeke Cabrera

Jose Ezequiel “Zeke” Cabrera peacefully died at home after a long battle with Leukemia September 29th, 2022 in Maryville, TN. He grew up in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas and moved his family to Maryville in 1975. It’s been said the measure of a man is in the lives he’s touched.. Truly every soul that crossed Zeke’s path was left better for the interaction. Zeke inspired more with his actions than words, and always led by example. Even in his final days, he was bringing comfort to those by his side. Zeke always kept a positive outlook. It was his faith that drove his thoughts and actions which was evident in his daily life. Those that knew Zeke loved him. After a decades long career in the Air Force and Air National Guard, plus several years in private flight operations, service in the community, mentoring, and becoming a Master Tai-Chi instructor, he leaves behind a large multi-generational fanbase. Though they will never fully heal from this loss, the lasting impact he made on each and every one of them will help fill the hole in their hearts. That is exactly what Zeke would have wanted. Zeke is preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Angela Cabrera. He is survived by his beloved wife, Aminda; sisters, Hermalinda Jaramillo and Elva Cabrera of Harlingen, TX; daughters, Yvonne Gordon of Knoxville, TN, Gina Benson and spouse Shane Benson of Fayetteville, GA, Carrie Cabrera and Spouse Eric Nemer of Saratoga Springs, NY, Melanie Cabrera of Denver, CO; and eight grandchildren, Joseph, Andrew, Aaron, Isabel, Jacob, AnnaMarie, Sebastian and Draegan; as well as his great-grandchildren, Alli and Rowen. We invite family and friends to attend visitation on Monday, October 3rd, 2022, 4:00pm-6:00pm followed by a memorial service at Smith Funeral Home, Maryville, TN. The burial service will be held the following day, Tuesday, October 4th, at 11:00am at Grandview Cemetery, Maryville, TN. In lieu of flowers, we ask you donate to the Friends of the Smokies fund. https:// friendsofthesmokies.org/product/remember-a-loved-one/. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com