Harold L. Godlevske

Harold L. Godlevske, age 89, of L’Anse, MI, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Harold was born on February 21, 1936, in Rhinelander, WI, the son of the late Leonard and Ida (Wine) Godlevske. He graduated as valedictorian of the Three Lakes High School Class of 1954 in Three Lakes, WI, and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Forestry from Michigan Technological University in 1958. On December 5, 1959, Harold married the former Darlene Hartikka at St. John’s Lutheran Church in L’Anse. He proudly served in the United States Army National Guard. After his honorable discharge, Harold began a distinguished career in forestry. He served as a planning chief for forest fire response efforts on the West Coast and later retired in 1987 as a supervisor for the Wayne-Hoosier National Forests in Indiana and Ohio. In recognition of his contributions, Harold was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by the Governor of Indiana and named an Ambassador of Natural Resources by the Governor of Ohio. After retirement, he continued his work through his own forestry consulting firm. Harold was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Covington, where he served on the church board. He was also active in the L’Anse American Legion Post #144 and the former L’Anse Lions Club. A passionate outdoorsman, Harold enjoyed hunting, fishing, cutting wood, camping, and traveling. He is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Darlene Godlevske of L’Anse; children: Cheryl (Pete) Tobin of Green Bay, WI; Dave (Anne) Godlevske of Indianapolis, IN; Becky (Jody) Wassermann of Fishers, IN; and Kurt (Beth) Godlevske of Bedford, IN. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Elissa, Jessica, Jacob, Joe (Megan), Danny, Sam, Simon, Seth, Corrin (Michael), Noah, and Katie; great-grandchildren: Lydia, Finley, and Nolan; his brother, Harlan (Evelyn) Godlevske of Rhinelander, WI; sister, Betty Kroeger of Milwaukee, WI; sister-in-law, Betty Gerts of Fox Lake, IL; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. Harold was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel in L’Anse. Military honors, conducted by the Baraga American Legion Post #444, will follow at 12:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m., officiated by Pastor Corey Harman and Pastor Howie Neider. Following the service, all are welcome to join the family for fellowship and a luncheon in the Harrington Gathering Room at the funeral home. The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel in L’Anse is honored to assist the Godlevske family with arrangements.

Harold L. Godlevske

February 21, 1936 - May 11, 2025