Marjorie Stevens

Marjorie Eleanor Stevens passed away peacefully after her bout with Alzheimer’s disease. She lived to be 91 years old. Marjorie, “Marge” was born to Walter and Josephine Nordheim. She was raised in Anaheim, California where the family owned an orange grove. She had one brother, William, who also lived to be 93, and passed away in February 2013. Marge loved to learn and she generally excelled at most things she attempted. She was proud of her early accomplishments in elementary and high school. Marge was encouraged to play the piano, and she performed regularly for her church and for weddings. Upon completion of high school, she attended Fullerton Junior College for two years. Her academics there culminated in her achievement of a scholarship award to the University of Southern California, (U.S.C.). She also was in a sorority there, and played organ for the University Methodist Church. Marge graduated with her Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1945. Marge’s first marriage to Alfred Dashielle Wallace took place when she was twenty three. The couple was blessed with their daughter, Joanne, and later, a son, Alfred (Al), and then Jeri, the youngest. The family resided in El Cajon. After seven years of marriage, the union was dissolved and Marge now divorced, continued to raise the three children, and did a wonderful job of enriching their lives with educational trips and experiences. Marjorie also prided herself in her employment. She was employed by the State of California at San Diego State University. She worked in the office of Veterans Affairs and with the Dean. She excelled there. Having a strong love of learning, Marge continued her studies at San Diego State. After several years, she obtained her Master of Arts in Administration. Following the obtainment of this degree, she was qualified, and rewarded by obtaining the position of Dean of Women and Dean of Financial Affairs at the newly established Palomar Community College in San Marcos. The concept was new and Marge had the discipline and courage to tackle the tough unknown. As the children grew older, Marge met and then dated James Stevens (Jim). The year was 1963. The couple enjoyed many activities together, including golf, fly fishing, sport fishing, and travel in general. After retirement from Palomar Community College, Marge and Jim married. The wedding took place in 1972 in their newly built home in Pauma Valley where Jim was the owner of avocado groves, Stevens Brothers Nursery, and on the Pauma Valley Water Board, and a representative to the Avocado Industry. The couple traveled extensively, to Spain for their honeymoon and then multiple trips to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, China, Indonesia, and Asia. Their interests in the arts found them collecting special antiques and collectibles. This interest was just one, amongst many. The couple also enjoyed their friendships with other couples in Pauma Valley and Palm Springs. Marge had a terrible scare with colon and liver cancer in 1986-88. She fought the battle and minded all of her doctors’ orders. A phone call to a specialist in New York, allowed Marge to overcome and survive. Her near brush with death gave life a new meaning and the small things brought greater pleasures. We all appreciated Marge even more. The importance of prayer became real. Unfortunately, Jim passed away at age 77 years old after a long battle with poor health. Marge was available now to further her relationships with friends and family. She enjoyed her grandchildren and continued to laugh and enjoy. Church became a special place to meet. She was able to go on several trips with the Church and the Choir. Her love of music grew. After Jim passed away, Marge enjoyed her other friendships and times with family during the holidays and on the special occasions when son, Al and wife, Sue visited from Amsterdam. Daughter Joanne and her husband Brian were nearby with her business office as were Joanne’s daughters and grandchildren. Jeri and husband Dick were also in San Diego and spent almost every Sunday with Marge at church. In addition to her three children, Marge is also survived by her four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.