Michael Joseph ZAGULA

1961 - 2015

News Death Notice

ZAGULA, Michael Joseph "Mike" Passed away tragically on July 19, 2015 in and airplane accidents, doing what he loved best, flying and using that skill to please others during a very special occasion. He was 54. Born January 2, 1961 to Ralph and Ethel Zagula Ladd in Dayton, OH. His father preceded him in death. His mother survives him. On October 8th, 2010 he married the love of his life, Gailyn (Fatouche) Zagula who survives him. They made their home together in the beautiful mountain area outside of Trapper Creek, AK, where she continues to reside. Also surviving are his daughter Tiffany Marie Zagula of Wasilla, AK, a sister Bambi-Linn Crews and brother Matthew Zagula, both of Dayton, OH. His loss is mourned by Gailyn's children and grandchildren: Adam and Genileigh Wentworth with their two daughters, Zoeigh and Olivia, residing in El Paso, TX. Michael McGhee of Trapper Creek, AK and Joshua and Annah Filter, also of Trapper Creek. Numerous extended family members including a nephew, Jacob Crews of Cincinnati, OH are counted among the bereaved along with close friends and business associates in the community. Mike earned an Associate Degree from ITT in Aviation Mechanics and performed light simulation training in the state of Florida. In Colorado he was employed with Air Methods as a mechanic on medical flight helicopters. His performance and service there earned him an "Award of Merit". He moved to Alaska in 1997 where he resided in Eagle River and later Trapper Creek. He became a Flight Engineer for Lynden Air Cargo and flew their C-130 Hercules during his employment. The Federal Aviation Administration recognized Mike with his inclusion in the prestigious FAA Airmen Certification Database. The database which appears on the agency's website at www.faa.gov, named Mike among other notable, certified pilots who had met or exceeded the high educational, licensing and medical standards established by the FAA. He was as accomplished and celebrated as a private pilot in service to others as the owner/operator of his own company, Curry Ridge Aviation where he flew his Cessna 206. Mike was a conscientious resident of Trapper Creek serving his neighbors and fellow residents on the Community Council and as Treasurer for the Upper Susitna Soil and Water Conservation Districts Board, for four years. He continued his community service on the Alaska Association of Conservation Districts Board at their state-wide meetings. He was a respected member of the community and well-liked by all who knew him as a friend and businessman. He was known to be a good man, husband and friend, who gave his all to those he loved. A memorial service is pending at the discretion of his family and will be announced at a later date. They wish to express their gratitude for the thoughts and prayers of friends and neighbors.