Dena M. Trego

November 17, 1926 - June 17, 2020

Dena M. Trego, 93, of Traverse City, formerly of Harrisville and Alpena, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at the Villa at Traverse Point. Dena was born on November 17, 1926 in Poplar Bluff, MO, to the late Buford and Maggie (Webb) Lawhon. She married the love of her life Boris Trego in 1953. He preceded her in death in 1993. Dena was the Director for the Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency and directly oversaw the Headstart Program for 25 counties in Michigan before retiring in 1990 after over 20 years of services. She proudly received the “Excellence in Childhood Education” award from the State of Michigan. She was a pioneer for equality for all people, especially for under privileged children. Above all spending time with her sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was her greatest joy. Dena is survived by three sons; Michael (Julie) Trego, Andy (Jaz) Trego and Samuel Trego. Also surviving are eight grandchildren; Jenipher, Andrew, Nicholas, Andrina, Aleksandr, Brandon, Evan, and Alexandra, as well as great-grandchildren, Isaiah, Isabella and one on the way. She was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister; Ray Lawhon, Max Lawhon and Geneva Cernicek. In accordance with Dena’s wishes a private family service has taken place. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to, NEMCSA, 2375 Gordon Rd., Alpena, Michigan 49707. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Dena’s family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.