Casey Matthew Allen Somsel

Casey Matthew Allen Somsel left this world on September 15, 2022. He was 38 years old. He is survived by his parents, Dewey and Donna Somsel, six siblings, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and innumerable friends.

Casey was born in Manistee, Michigan on July 27, 1984, and adopted into the Somsel family. He graduated from Manistee High School in 2003, and attended West Shore Community College. In young adulthood, Casey lived in Hawaii, Minnesota, and the Mt. Hood area before settling in Bend, Oregon. He founded Paper Crane Tattoo Studio in Bend, and was well loved in the community for his artistic talent and kindness. Beyond his tattoo practice, Casey’s creative work included painting, drawing, and pottery. He loved rock climbing, and enjoyed traveling throughout the West on climbing adventures. He spoke of finding great peace and clarity whilst suspended on a rock wall. After his cancer diagnoses in early 2022, Casey moved to Portland for treatment and the support of his closest lifelong friends. Stepping away from his professional life let him dedicate himself to healing physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Casey’s gentleness, creative spirit, and ability to connect to people set him apart as a truly unique soul. He understood tattooing as a deeply personal practice that often helped people to heal, and was known by hundreds of clients for his skill, empathy, and gentle touch. His laugh was infectious, his charm unbearable. He made friends everywhere he went, and was loved deeply by nearly anyone who met him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3pm on October 7, 2022 and is open to the public. The service will be held outdoors at the Lakeside Pavilion, Mt. Hood Oregon Resort in Welches. In lieu of giving flowers, honor Casey’s memory by taking a walk outside and finding your own flower. Take a deep healing breath, and know that he is with us everywhere.