LeVake, Sgt. George 1912-1961

LEVAKE

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 8/21/2012 at 13:05:41

The Montezuma (IA) Republican; June 8, 1961

MILITARY HONORS FOR MONTEZUMA COMBAT VETERAN

Sgt. George LeVake, World War II combat veteran who left a foot in Italy that we in America could continue our way of life, was laid to rest Saturday morning in Masonic-IOOF cemetery with full military honors. Commander Blair Brooks was in charge for the American Legion, Marcus Shearer commanded the firing squad, Miss Miriam Ammann sounded Taps and Miss Joyce Stout, the echo.

George enlisted in the Army May 21, 1941 at Fort Des Moines, and was discharged from Percy Jones hospital, Battle Creek, Mich., Dec. 28, 1944, for combat disability. In between he served in Algeria and Tunisia in Africa and was wounded by a land mine Dec. 1, 1943, in the Italian invasion. His medals included the Purple Heart, Good Conduct, European - Africa - Middle Eastern area with three combat stars, the American Defense, and the Infantry Combat badge.

George, son of Scott and Myrtle LeVake, was born in Montezuma Jan. 18, 1912, and died here June 1, at 49 years of age. He was graduated from M.H.S. with the class of '29 and was an outstanding athlete, good student and a member of the Presbyterian church.

He is survived by a brother, Donald, Montezuma, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Steffy Funeral Home, conducted by the Rev. G.R. Dieken, assisted by the Rev. David Barker, Winfield, a former Monte friend. Alice Underwood played the funeral selections.

Interment was with full military honors. Casket bearers were Hugh McMeekin, Foster Pugh, Walter Hockey, Marvin Ferneau, Max Johnston and Buddy Baird.