EX-IHSAA Executive Director Bernie Saggau, 96, Is Survived By His Kids Following The Death Of His Wife Lois Nadine

Saggau left a lasting mark on generations of athletes, coaches, and school communities.

May 13, 2026

This article was last updated by Manoj Gadtaula on May 13, 2026

Bernie Saggau, a legendary figure in Iowa high school athletics, passed away on May 9 at 96.

He led the Iowa High School Athletic Association from 1967 until 2005, becoming its longest-serving executive director.

He introduced a structured playoff system for football and reorganized basketball divisions to ensure fair competition.

Under his leadership, Iowa was also the first state to adopt the 3-point line in high school basketball.

He contributed to expanding sports like soccer and was instrumental in building some of the country’s largest state wrestling and track events.

Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Bernie Saggau

Lois Nadine Saggau, the wife of former IHSAA Executive Director Bernie Saggau, passed away in 2008 at the age of 78 at Kavanagh on Grand in West Des Moines.

Lois and Bernie first met while attending Buena Vista University and were married in 1952.

Together, they raised their three children, Jeffery, Rebecca, and David in several Iowa communities, including Cherokee, Storm Lake, and Boone, where they lived for over three decades from 1962 to 1998.

In their later years, they made their home in West Des Moines for about 10 years.

Lois was actively involved in several organizations, including Questers, PEO, and the Des Moines Women’s Club.

Their love and legacy, built over decades together, continue to live on through their family and all the lives they touched.

Chuck Van Hecke remembered Bernie as a powerful mentor, an inspiring leader, and, above all, a remarkable person.

Along with his assistants, Rick Wulkow and Dave Harty, Bernie helped shape high school sports in Iowa for generations.

Sad news one of Iowa’s treasures Bernie Saggau has passed, Bernie was 96 years old.
Mr. Saggau was the Ex. Director of the Iowa High School Athletic Assocation for many years.
I had the honor of serving on the Iowa High School Athletic Board for 10 years .
Bernie Saggau was one of the great leaders not only in Iowa but was recognized as a leader Nationally.
This is one of my favorite pictures, Bernie is on the right,his two Assistants Rick Wulkow on the left and Dave Harty.
Bernie was a true Mentor, dynamic leader and a better person.RIP

Further, Diane Bishop Richards shared that anyone who had the chance to know Bernie Saggau was truly blessed.

She expressed deep gratitude for the way God brought their lives together and said that she will be forever thankful for that connection.

If you knew Bernie Saggau, you were blessed! God brought our lives together….and we will be eternally grateful!

We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and all who were touched by the life of Bernie Saggau.

In Case You Didn’t Know

  • Lois and Bernie enjoyed traveling with friends and gathering at home or at Lake Okoboji with family.
  • The couple attended the West Des Moines United Methodist Church.
  • He worked to make sure state tournaments were held in the best venues available and was the driving force behind the creation of the Iowa Hall of Pride
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