Roger Allen DeYoung

Roger Allen DeYoung peacefully passed away in his sleep at home on November 3, 2007.  He was the son of Peter and Alice DeYoung from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Roger grew up in Pasadena and  attended the University of Southern California. He enlisted in the Navy during WWII and served as a second lieutenant, stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii. After the war, he returned to USC and received a Bachelors of Science degree in 1948. Roger was a member of the Trojan Knights, President of the Trojan Squires, and a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Roger married Nancy Lou Ayres and they lived in Hancock Park for many years, and later moved to Newport Beach in the early 1970s.

Roger started his career as a real estate developer with Frank H. Ayres and Son. He subsequently  opened his own company, Roger DeYoung Construction Company, and was joined by his two sons, Roger Jr. and Doug.  Roger was well respected in the real estate industry and was known for his integrity and honesty. Roger had  an unassuming, affable nature and always enjoyed meeting new people. He was always kind, generous,  and giving.  Roger was a great friend to many, and he will be sorely missed.

Roger led a life filled with love for his family, passion for work, and a strong sense of fairness.  He was a great friend, a loving husband,  and an extraordinary father.  Passionate about his grandchildren, Roger  was the consummate grandfather. He knew everything about each of his seven grandchildren and would call daily to congratulate them on receiving a good grade or a well played sporting match. He would go out of his way to attend  their sporting events. Each of the grandchildren dearly loved their “Poppy”.

Roger served as Chairman of USC Alumni travel and enjoyed learning about other cultures and visiting new places. His favorite trips though were those spent with his children and grandchildren.

Roger is survived by his wife of 59 years, Nancy, his sister,  Shirley DeYoung Wilson, his children and their spouses: Roger and Sandy DeYoung , Doug and Cathryn DeYoung, and Wendy and Ken Gerdau. His seven grandchildren, Grant, Scott, Kelly, Katie, Jack, Kasey and Riley were the joys of his life. 

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hoag Hospital Foundation , 1 Hoag Drive P.O. Box 6100 Newport Beach 92658 or the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum, 600 East Bay Ave., Newport Beach 92663. A private family service will be held.