Levi Charles Ratzlaff

Levi Charles Ratzlaff, 78, passed away at home June 9, 2015. A memorial service was June 13, 2015, at Wasilla Christian Church.

Levi was born Feb. 12, 1936, in Rosemount, Minnesota, to Charles and Caroline (Hagemeister) Ratzlaff. He was raised in Minnesota, helped his dad with the milk routes and worked at Smith’s Granery.

He graduated from Rosemount High School in 1955. Levi met Donna “Marlene” Mort and they were married October 1958 and resided in Apple Valley.

Levi and family moved to Alaska in 1969, settling in Anchorage and moving to Wasilla in the early 1970s. Levi was working for Wien Airlines, but spent most of his time in the Valley working as a dump truck driver. Levi lived in Unalaska for a short time working as a longshoreman for Sealand then returned to Wasilla and worked as a dump truck driver for Knik Landscaping.

When Levi wasn’t working, he enjoyed fishing, gardening and tractors. His family stated, “Levi was a supportive husband and family man. He cared deeply about his acquaintances throughout Alaska. He checked in with many friends and family frequently the last few years. He loved the Lord and enjoyed singing of his Savior; he was always listening and singing along with KJNP/KJHA.”

Levi is survived by his sons, Gary (Monique) and Greg (Brenda) Ratzlaff; daughter, Rochelle (Rev. Jr.) Markle; granddaughters, Rachel (Luther) Howe, Rebekah Ratzlaff, Amilynn Luther, Rachael McDowell, Sarah Luther, Kristin Torgerson, and Alicia Markle; grandsons, Zachaery Ratzlaff and Sean Markle; great grandchildren, Fraeya and Gunnaer McDowell, Kaylee Torgerson, Cullen Betts, Halee, Elizabeth and Katie Howe; brother, David Ratzlaff; many other cousins and extended family.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marlene; and sisters, Alvera and Gloria.

Cremation Society of Alaska/Mat-Su is caring for the family.