Levant B. Mast Obituary (1925 - 2010) - Three Rivers, Michigan

Lt. Col. Levant B. Mast (retired) of Three Rivers, died Sunday July 4, 2010 at Heartland Healthcare Center in Three Rivers where he was a patient for 3 weeks. He was born in Assyria Center, MI on March 28, 1925 the son of Kevin and Ruby (Miller) Mast. He was a 1942 graduate of Lansing High School and later earned several college and advanced military degrees. He career in the U.S. Army lasted for 20 years, serving in WWII, Korea, and Viet Nam. He received numerous awards and commendations including the Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, and the Air Medal. Between enlistments and after retirement, Lt. Col. Levant also worked for Montgomery Wards, and Federals Department Store. He also worked at Armstrong Machine Works and was involved in the real estate and auctioneering businesses. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing, gardening, drawing, and wood-working. Levant was married to Gene Messinger on Sep. 5, 1948 in Three Rivers. She survives along with 2 daughters, Sally Mast of Three Rivers and Joan Davis of Spring Hill, FL; a grandson, Troy Davis of Spring Hill, FL; a granddaughter, Marie Davis of Seattle, WA; great-grandson, Troy Davis II; sister in law, May Pitts and a niece, Jacqueline Pitts both of Battle Creek; a nephew, Tom Pitts (Margaret) of Grand Rapids, MN; a great-niece, Chloe Pitts; and a great-nephew, Luke Pitts. He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, Nathan Miller; and a brother, Kevin Mast, Jr. Cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday at the Eickhoff, Farrand, Halverson Chapel in Three Rivers. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Friday July 9, 2010 at Riverside Cemetery in Three Rivers with Rev. Dr. Maria Rutland of the First United Methodist Church officiaitng, and with military honors from Hice-Shutes American Legion Post #170. Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association, or the Animal Rescue Fund. An online register is available and condolences may be left at www.efhchapel.com