Preston Stegenga

Preston Jay Stegenga was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on July 9, 1924, and died in Sacramento, California on September 17, 2010. He was married for 60 years to Marcia Jean Stegenga. He is the father of James Jay Stegenga and Susan Jayne Stegenga. For much of his childhood, he lived in North Bergen, New Jersey, where his father (Miner Stegenga) served as a Pastor in the Dutch Reformed Church. Preston started college at Hope College in Michigan in 1941 but was called to serve in the United States Army Counter-Intelligence Corps during World War II. He earned the Purple Heart for a nearly fatal wound he received while in Europe. After recovering from his wounds, Preston completed his education at Hope College in 1947. He earned a MA degree from Columbia University (New York) in 1948. He earned a PhD at the University of Michigan in 1952. He chose the University of Michigan, in part, because of his love for Michigan football. One of his last words before passing was “Go Blue.” Preston’s career included serving as an instructor of History at Berea College in Kentucky from 1952 to 1955. He was President of Northwestern College in Iowa from 1955 to 1966. He worked for the United States Agency for International Development from 1966 to 1968, where he served as an Advisor to the President of the University of Liberia in West Africa. From 1968 until retirement on May 10, 1988, he was Director of the International Center at California State University in Sacramento (CSUS). He also served as CSUS Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs in 1974 and 1975. After retirement, he remained interested in education and foreign affairs. For example, he served as an advisor to the California State Fair (Cal Expo) for their international programs. He regularly was elected to serve as Vice President of the Consistory of Hope Reformed Church in Sacramento. He is the author of one published book, entitled Anchor of Hope.

Memorial Services will be held October 23, 2010 at 2:00 PM at the Sierra Arden United Church of Christ, 890 Morse Ave

Sacramento, CA 95864 (916) 483-5501

Flowers can be sent to the church before the service if so desired. Donations in honor of Dad can be given to the food closet at Sierra Arden Church or to a hospice. Otherwise a donation to a charity of the donor's choice can be given in Dad's name.

Arrangements under the direction of Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger Funeral Home, Sacramento, CA.