Obituary for Laura C. (Platte) Stegenga

Laura C. Stegenga, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on March 23, 1935, she was the daughter of Bernard and Mary Platte and a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Laura’s life was a testament to her devotion to her family and community. Alongside her husband Jack of 49 years, she raised their three children on their centennial farm. She was an inspiration to many "Wee People" as well as to all who met her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and kindness that will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom she adored and who adored her in return.

Laura’s community involvement included co-owning Miss Laura’s Wee People Nursery School, where she nurtured and guided many children in their early years. Laura had many hobbies, including creating quilts and baby blankets for her family and extended family, refinishing antique furniture, and engaging in various crafts throughout the years, always giving her creations to others to enjoy.

Laura was preceded in death by her parents; several siblings; her husband, Jack; and her son, Mike. She is survived by her daughter, Beth (Doug) Stiffler, and her son, Bill (Sharon) Stegenga, as well as her brothers Lee, Paul, and Steve (Sue) Platte, and her sisters-in-law, Evelyn Haueter and Marilyn Bowker.

Laura is also lovingly remembered by her six grandchildren: Laura (Troy) Sanderson, Jake Stegenga, Danielle (Dave) Rush, Clayton Stiffler, Cristin (Brandon) Bigham, and Ben Stegenga, and her nine great-grandchildren: Olivia, Jack, Addison, Amelia, Sloane, Emmett, Greyson, Beckett, and Callen.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Country Living and their staff for their compassionate care and support.

The Funeral Liturgy to honor Laura’s life will be held at St. Patrick’s Church on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.