Levi Charles Ratzlaff

Wasilla resident, Levi Charles Ratzlaff, 78, passed away at home on June 9, 2015. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, June 13, 2015 at Wasilla Christian Church, 2201 S Knik-Goose Bay Rd. Levi was born on February 12, 1937 in Rosemount, Minnesota to Charles and Caroline (Hagemeister) Ratzlaff. He was raised in Minnesota, helping his dad with the milk routes as a kid and working at Smith's Granery; he graduated from Rosemount High School in 1955. Levi met Donna "Marlene" Mort, his future wife; and in October of 1958, Levi and Marlene married, residing in Apple Valley. In 1969, Levi, Marlene and their family moved to Alaska. First settling in Anchorage, then the family moved to Wasilla in the early 70's; Levi was working for Wien Airlines at the time but spent most of his time in the Valley working as a dump truck driver. Levi lived in Unalaska for a short time while working as a longshoreman for Sealand but 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 about others and enjoyed acquaintances with many people 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, both of Wasilla; daughter, Rochelle (Rev. JR) Markle of Barrow; granddaughters, Rachel (Luther) Howe of North Pole, Rebekah Ratzlaff of Oregon, Amilynn Luther of Yakima, Washington, Rachael McDowell of Wasilla, Sarah Luther and Kristin Torgerson, both of Fairbanks, and Alicia Markle of Barrow; grandsons, Zachaery Ratzlaff of Wasilla and Sean Markle of Anchorage; great grandchildren, Fraeya and Gunnaer McDowell, Kaylee Torgerson, Cullen Betts, Halee, Elizabeth and Katie Howe; brother, David Ratzlaff of Minnesota; and many other cousins and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Caroline; his wife, Marlene Ratzlaff; and his sisters, Alvera and Gloria.