Paul Clifford Trogen

Obituary for Paul Clifford Trogen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Paul Clifford Trogen, beloved father and respected educator, who left us on May 21, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on June 29, 1954, in Minneapolis, MN, Paul was a dedicated professional and a cherished member of his community in Johnson City, TN.

Paul was preceded in death by wife Natalia Romanova, father Clifford Carl, brother David John, and sister Ann Marie. Paul was a proud father to his daughters, Greta Helena (and partner Kenneth Marshall Seaton III) and Maria Zakharova Bettini (and husband Matthew), and a loving husband to Natalia. Shortly after Natalia immigrated into the United States from Moscow, Russia to pursue graduate school at Florida State, it was love at first sight for Paul. They studied together, Paul helping her with her English and writing. They married in January of 1991, and after her death in 2004 he never remarried and waited to reunite with her in heaven. He was also a faithful and caring son to Mary Louise Bechtold and Clifford Carl and a supportive eldest brother to Mark Joseph (and wife Ginny), Mary Patricia, David John (and wife Elaine), Lawrence James (and partner Michelle), Ann Marie, and JoAnne Mary Kohls (and husband Craig). Paul’s family meant the world to him, and he was devoted to nurturing their interests and dreams.

For 31 years, Paul was a key figure at East Tennessee State University, where he excelled as a Professor Emeritus of Public Administration and Director of the Master of Public Administration program. He treated his students like family, even providing breakfast and coffee to his morning classes. His leadership extended beyond the classroom, as he held leadership positions in the Faculty Senate and the Parking, Pedestrian, & Traffic Committee. Paul was committed to shaping the future of public policy and made a lasting impact in his field with numerous publications on topics related to global public finance and public administration.

Paul graduated at the top of the 1972 class from West High School in Minneapolis and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in political science from St. Thomas University in Saint Paul, MN. He earned a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and served as a Baptist minister, leading a congregation, and later actively contributing to worship music at multiple churches. He then completed his master’s in Public Administration at Mankato

State University followed by his Ph.D. in Public Administration at Florida State University. Paul was proficient in Hebrew, Greek, and German, which further showcased his love for lifelong learning and connection with diverse cultures.

In his free time, Paul enjoyed martial arts, studying the history and teachings of Jesus, watching hummingbirds, and gardening. He was known for his love of food, especially the restaurants Carrabba’s Italian Grill, El Charolais, and Captain D’s, and cherished moments spent with family and friends. His warm spirit, intellect, and love for his family and community will be missed beyond words. His contributions to education and his devotion to his faith have left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be missed dearly by all of us. May he rest in peace.

Paul will lay alongside his wife at Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park.

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Trogen family. (423) 282-1521.