Captain Andrew Stegen

Captain Andrew Holton Stegen, 87, a native of Baton Rouge and longtime Metairie resident, was surrounded by friends and family when he entered heaven’s gates from his Mandeville residence on Thursday, October 22, 2020.   Andrew served in the US Merchant Marine, earning the license of Master Mariner, and was honorably discharged as Navy Reserve Officer.  Following his seagoing career, he joined the Crescent River Port Pilots Association, serving as a river pilot for 34 years.  His grandchildren were his greatest treasure.  Whether it was birthday parties, football games, swim meets, soccer games, drum performances, 4th of July celebrations, or graduations, Andrew cherished spending time with his friends and family the most.  Andrew was born on October 24, 1932 in New Orleans, LA.  He is preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Laura Whittington Stegen; his brother, John Stegen of Pineville; his sister, Johann Petty of Atlanta, GA.  He is survived by his sister Inga Burkett of Memphis, TN; his daughter, Loretta Nesbitt and husband Greg of Dripping Springs, TX; his son, Eric Stegen and wife Bonnie of Mandeville; grandchildren Lauren Nesbitt D’Brass, Natalie Nesbitt, Andrew “Drew” Nesbitt, Matthew Stegen, and Lillian Stegen.  Visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, Monday, October 26, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life at 10:00 a.m.   Interment will follow on the grounds of Resthaven Gardens of Memory.  In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Council of American Master Mariners in his memory.  Psalm 107:23-30 “Some went out on the sea in ships; they were merchants on the mighty waters.  They saw the works of the Lord, his wonderful deeds in the deep.  For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves.  They were at their wits’ end.  They cried out the Lord in their trouble, he stilled the storm to a whisper.  They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their safe haven.”  Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.