Ivan Levin

Ivan Ronald “Ron” Levin was born in Saint Louis, Missouri, on August 20, 1932, to Abraham “George” Levin and Evelyn (Lemshinsky) Levin.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 66 years, Marian Soukup Levin; his daughter, Elisabeth Miles of Yucaipa, California; and his brother, David Levin of Salem, Missouri.

He is survived by his children, Carrie Levin and Peter Levin, both of Springfield, and John Levin (wife, Kathy) of Sherman, Illinois; as well as his grandchildren, Benjamin Levin, Leah Levin, Hannah Cobb (husband, Matt), Nicholas Mulcahy, and Sean Mulcahy.

Ron served his country as a member of the United States Navy from 1952–1956. Following his time in the Navy, he studied history at Washington University in Saint Louis, earning a baccalaureate degree.

While working as a bartender at the Raleigh House in Saint Louis, he met and fell in love with ballet dancer Marian Soukup, who was working there as a waitress. Following a six-week whirlwind courtship, Ron and Marian were married on September 14, 1958. Their first child, Elisabeth, was born on August 1, 1959.

While living in Saint Louis with his wife and growing family, Ron began working for the Anti-Defamation League. In the early 1960s, he accepted a position as Director of the Springfield office of the Illinois Commission on Human Relations, and the family moved to Springfield. He worked for the commission until 1973 and completed his career as a legislative analyst for the House Revenue Committee, where he was celebrated for his “unmatched expertise” regarding revenue issues. He remained in this position until his retirement in 1997.

Ron was an avid reader, historian, jazz enthusiast, and devoted Cardinals fan. His particular interest in World War II history was well known to family and friends, and he often served as the unofficial historian during several European trips. Ron’s family is especially grateful for his wonderful friends of many decades and traveling companions—Bea, Duane, Jim, and Noreen (who – with Ron and Marian – made up “The Magnificent 6”) These dear friends filled his retirement years with joy, adventure, and steadfast friendship.

In lieu of flowers, and for those wishing to commemorate Ron’s life, please consider a gift to the Lupus Foundation of America and/or the Hoogland Center for the Arts.

A private burial will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

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