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Michael Zagars Obituary
A memorial service will be at 7 p.m. Saturday at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Bogard Road in Wasilla. Interment will be at 1 p.m. Monday at Fort Richardson National Cemetery.
Michael was born March 29, 1959, to Richard and Sheila Zagars in Juneau. He attended schools in Juneau, graduating with the class of 1977. After attending Western State in Gunnison, Colo., Michael enlisted in the U.S. Air Force from 1983 to 1986. After leaving the Air Force, Michael moved to Kotzebue, where he married Arlene Sampson and fathered his two children, Michael, Jr. and Anthony. In 1988, the Zagars moved to Wasilla. Michael's first wife passed away in 2001. Michael met his current bride, Reinhilde Graham, in 2005; they were married May 27, 2008.
"Mike was an exceptional athlete from preschool to the present, excelling in skiing and track," his family recalled. "In his senior year at Juneau High School, he held the Southeast Alaska high jump record and the state record for triple jump, which stood for about 18 years.
"He was a self-employed, skilled carpenter. While working in Kotzebue, he enjoyed the challenge of sled dog racing and had 26 dogs in his kennel.
"Mike was best known among his many friends as an outgoing, happy, generous friend and neighbor, always willing to be helpful. He was active with his sons as an assistant coach for track and football, never missing a meet or game. If there were more Mikes on the planet, it would be a more beautiful world."
Michael is survived by his wife, Reinhilde Zagars; parents, Richard and Sheila Zagars of Juneau; two sons, Michael Lawrence Zagars Jr. and Anthony Steven Zagars; stepchildren, Daniel Graham and Sara Graham; brother, Christopher W. Zagars; sisters, Carrie Jo Rehfeld and Celia M. Zagars; aunt, Mollie Jo Buschfort; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Walter Sampson and Myrtis Rogers; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made to the Zagar Family Memorial Account at any branch of Wells Fargo Bank.
Valley Funeral Homes & Crematory of Wasilla and Palmer is assisting the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Zagars
Maggie Vargas
February 26, 2024
I saw the story of this Mr. Michael Z. And from what he read, he was a person very loved by many, what a shame it had to end in tragedy. My Condolences to his wife,
Children and the entire Family & Friends!!!!!
RIP
Stephanie Strong
October 6, 2022
My deepest condolences- he sounds like an amazing human.
Mark Rosier
June 27, 2008
Though I haven't seen Mike in some 20 years, his impact and possitive effects are felt to this day. As my neighbor during our boyhood, he introduced me to sports and distance running, which I continue in even now. Mike was always a great friend and I have thought of him fondly as an important light in my past. I will truly miss him. Again, he was so very important to me as we grew up togeter in Juneau I am reduced to tears now knowing that I won't see him again, on this side of glory. It is my hope and prayer that his relationship with Jesus Christ endures, even now. I should have said it before, and it will be an abiding regret of mne that I didn't, but thank you, Mike.
Terri Dillon
June 15, 2008
Michael,
What a wonderful, fun loving, amazing, and beautiful soul you are. You are truly a gift that will not be forgotten. Happy Fathers Day.
Terri Mungle Dillon
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Leslie Dahl
June 15, 2008
From another classmate, JDHS Class of 1977. My deepest condolences to the family. Mike was a shining light of athletic talent, humor, fun adventure and kindness to our class. Friendly to everyone, remembered fondly by everyone. We are so grateful that he was at our 30th Reunion last summer. He will be sorely missed. It is very apparent he leaves behind quite a legacy and many loyal friends and a loving family. Again, I am so sorry. Leslie (Burns) Dahl.
Manuel and Yolanda Duran
June 11, 2008
Michael, Antone, Zagars, Sampson and Rogers family...
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry we could not be there in you time of need. God Bless!
Carol Taylor
June 9, 2008
To Mike's family and friends,
Mike was such a wonderful father and community member. He was so giving to the community. Where his sons were you were sure to find him. Sincere condolences to Mike's family and friends.
Dolly Patterson
June 9, 2008
Our Condolences, Thoughts and Prayers goes out to the Family, Extended Family, especially to the Boy's, also to the Sampson's. God Bless Each and Everyone. Jesus Only. From the Patterson's in BRW
Summers family (Hayden)
June 7, 2008
Our hearts are with the boys at this time. Your Dad was always kind and fun to talk to at games - he adores you both and was so proud of you!! We are glad to have known him. Most sincere wishes of comfort.
Lydia Jackson/Henry
June 7, 2008
My condolences to the family of Mike Zagars Sr.My prayers are with you all.Hi to Mike Jr.,Antone and my cousin Myrtis. Fr.your Extended family at Noorvik. With god's blessings and prayers.
Matt, Ruth, Colin & Lena Reisterer
June 7, 2008
We are traveling at this time and regret not being present as Mike is honored and lovingly remembered.
He was the type of person that always had a smile and word of positive encouragement for all. We remember his big grin lighting up the crowd at games. Michael and Antone are left with strong values, good paths ahead, and will continue to make their family proud! It has been our pleasure to have known Mike and will look forward to seeing his spirit continue in his young men. Our sincere condolences to all of his family for their loss...
Laura and Jeanne Lahrson
June 7, 2008
Dear Mike and Antone, we are truly saddened by your loss of your dad. He was the friendliest guy in the neighborhood always ready to talk about kids, dogs and sports. May this time of grief pass gently for you.
Tim/Dayle/Joe/Jesse Thornock
June 7, 2008
Mike will really be missed by all of us. He was down to earth, positive, and so friendly.
He was Jesse's adopted Uncle.
Mike, We promise to be there for your family. Take care buddy.
Karen Feero
June 6, 2008
You will be missed by the JDHS Class of 1977! We had a great time in high school, very fond memories of you and your adventures. You will be gone, but not forgotten.
deby zagars
June 6, 2008
Dear Zagars family,our deepist sympathy from kathleen, deby, tracy,rita and richard. we will always remember mike as a good kind person always ready to help with anything. i will never forget his laugh and the many great times he shared with us. our hearts go out to micheal and antone. i know he was a great dad and will truely be missed. we send our love and prayers.
Christina & Jeff Garcia
June 6, 2008
We will espescially miss seeing your smilling face on Christmas Eve. You are a great father, man, friend and softball player. You will be greatly missed.
Robin Bissey
June 6, 2008
My sympathy is extended to the entire family from the children's former teacher at Finger Lake, Robin Bissey.
The Anderson's
June 6, 2008
To the family and friends of Mr. Zagars :
Our deepest condolences to you for the loss of this great man. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Jak Zagars
June 6, 2008
MIKE YOU WILL BE TRULEY MISSED BY ALL. IAM GLAD YOU WERE A PART OF MY LIFE AND ALWAYS WILL BE. REST IN PEACE. I HOPE YOU CATCH THE BIG HALIBIT UP THERE, THE ONE THAT ALWAYS GETS AWAY. WE LOVE YOU AND RIENHELDIA AND THE BOYS ALWAYS. LOVE CHRIS AND JAK ZAGARS
Mark Niver
June 5, 2008
Mike was such a cool guy, always there always in our hearts. Michael and Antone have a good roll model to follow after. You'll be the men your Dad wanted to be. Lots of Love to All the Zagars
Roberta Niver
June 5, 2008
Mike was the most INCREDIBLE father I have ever known. As a single dad he made memories to last a life time with Michael and Antone. But, his father role didn't stop there! He was a second father to all of the boys in the KR3W. He is forever in our hearts. God Bless Michael and Antone.
Loren, Krissy, & Ryan Rupe
June 5, 2008
Mike was a long time family friend and a great dad! He actually had about 10 sons if you count all of his sons friends who looked up to him like their second dad. He had many annual outings that all the boys looked forward to each year and will hold in their hearts forever. Whether it was the Annual Ninilchik clamming trip or the Annual Alyeska trip, or just golfing with the boys they always had a great time and all loved Mike! Mike will be remembered in the heart of everyone he touched and depply missed!
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