Stephen Edward Rogers

In Loving Memory of Stephen Rogers It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, brother, teacher, mentor, and friend, Stephen Rogers, who passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026, Stephen was born in Woodlake, CA on December 2. 1946 to Howard and Esther Rogers. Stephen is survived by his wife. Jeanette Steck Rogers, stepson. lan Steck, sister, Melinda Wittwer, brother-in-law, Edward, and nephews, Christopher, Andrew, and Bradley. After graduating Lindsay High School in 1964, Stephen attended COS, where he earned an Associate Business Degree. Continuing at Fresno State University, he achieved both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Marketing and Business Education. Upon graduation, Stephen began what would become a remarkable 36-vear career at Mt. Whitnev High School in Visalia, CA, where he taught Business and Marketing. During that time, he was instrumental in developing the business program, establishing DECA, and installing work-based learning opportunities. He was a driving force in DECA for 40 years and served on the State Board for 15 years. Stephen was granted numerous awards during his teaching career, among them being, the National DECA Outstanding Service Award, the JC Penny Golden Rule Award, and the Kenny Shoe Award, recognizing his comment to developing programs that foster leadership, service, and that help others succeed. Stephen is the only CA sponsor to have among the students he mentored, a National DECA President and has had three students that worked for three US Presidents. Stephen's interest extended beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a patron and participant in the fine arts. After acting in COS plays, he invested in Broadway productions. For 60 years, he spent countless hours perfecting his passion, ballroom dancing. That same willingness to learn, was evident when he took Jeanette's COS Watercolor class. Whether he was teaching Business, dancing, exploring the Arts, or trying his hand at Watercolor, Stephen approached life with commitment, curiosity and enthusiasm. At Stephen's request, a scholarship fund will be established, in lieu of flowers. Donations can be made to Visalia Education Foundation, 5000 W. Cypress Ave. Visalia CA 93277 or www.visaliaedfoundation.org Please indicate "Stephen Rogers Memorial Scholarship" A celebration of Stephen's Life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, September 19th, 2026 at Salser & Dillard Event Center, 135 E. Caldwell Ave, Visalia, CA. Parking available behind in the church parking lot. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Stephen Edward Rogers

December 2, 1946 - August 1, 2026