LCpl. Levi T. Angell, U.S.M.C (KIA)

Cloquet soldier Levi Angell killed in Iraq

CLOQUET - Lance Corporal Levi Angell, a 20-year-old Marine from Cloquet, became the seventh Minnesota soldier and second from Carlton County to die in Iraq when his Humvee was hit with a rocket-propelled grenade last week.

“There’s a lot of sadness,” said Amanda Angell, Levi’s 17-year-old sister. “It’s sad to lose him. He did it on his own so I’m proud of him for making that choice.”

“I’m as proud as any parent could be,” added Gordon Angell Jr. Levi’s father.

“One minute there’s tears, sorrow and anger and the next moment you’re thinking about the times that he was around with a smile on his face,” added Dennis Angell, Levi’s uncle.

Angell attended Cloquet High School and was a member of the graduating class of 2002. He enlisted in the Marines shortly after graduation and had previously served in the Middle East. He had been back in Iraq for about six weeks.

“He was a very nice kid,” commented Cloquet High School Principal Warren Peterson. “I know they say that all the time, but he really was a nice kid.”

Peterson said Angell, a 2002 graduate of Cloquet High School, was involved in drama, art and choir at Cloquet, and was a member of the school’s 1999 one-act play production of “Crane Maiden,” which advanced all the way to state competition. Angell enjoyed playing chess, basketball, track, football and karate. He was also an avid deer hunter.

Spc. Joe Seppa of the Minnesota Army National Guard is a former classmate of Angell’s.

“It’s hard,” said Seppa. “The effects of losing a classmate hasn’t sunk in yet at all but he died as a hero and he should never be forgotten.”

“I’m kind of in shock,” said Dwight Cadwell, Levi’s middle school basketball coach. “It’s just hard to believe at this point.”

School was not in session in Cloquet last week, but resumed on Monday. Peterson said the district is offering counseling and support services for students.

“As a school and a community, we really want to pass on our condolences and support to the family,” Peterson said. “Right now, that’s the most important thing.”

Angell’s death was a shock to local residents, but word spread quickly and many called to offer their condolences to the family.

“That’s what family is all about,” added Gordon Angell. “Our family is strong but we have a big family. I have eight children. But even to take one of them out cuts a big hole in our family. No matter if you’ve got one or eight, when you lose one you lose a lot.”

Angell’s funeral arrangements are being handled by Northland Funeral Home in Cloquet, but plans have not yet been finalized.